(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB REDS men’s volleyball team is naming 6’2” setter Jayden Chiasson to their recruiting class of 2023.
Chiasson, the son of former UNB men’s volleyball player and assistant coach Jamie Chiasson, has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent and will join the REDS ahead of the 2023-24 RSEQ season.
“I’ve been watching the REDS for as long as I can remember,” said Chiasson. “My Dad coached and played here, so I was born into this team. It’s been a dream of mine to play for UNB since the first time I went to watch them play.”
The 17-year-old Chiasson is finishing his Grade 12 year at Fredericton High School, where he’s been a member of the varsity boys’ team for three seasons. He was named team captain in his Grade 11 season.
“Jayden started playing volleyball at an early age, so he has a good technical foundation and a high volleyball IQ, which will strengthen our setting position right away,” said REDS head coach Dan McMorran. “I’m excited to continue to coach him and look forward to his development within our REDS program.”
At the club level, Chiasson is a current member of Fredericton’s Reds U18 side and a former member of the Spartans U18 team.
In 2022, Chiasson was part of the Spartans side that earned a top 15 finish at the national championships.
“I’m a leader on and off the court,” he said. “I’ll push everyone to be their best. I’m competitive and will always work the hardest I can to succeed. I always expect my best and expect others to follow.”
Chiasson is hoping to make an immediate impact on the REDS. He says he’ll work hard to improve individually and help the team improve. His goal is to play an important role in helping the REDS win and become a player Coach McMorran can rely on.
“Jayden is a competitive multi-sport athlete who has had success in every sport he’s played,” said Coach McMorran. “To compliment that, he’s also an excellent student.”
Chiasson will study Engineering while attending UNB.
STORY AND PHOTOS: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics