Rowdy Rustler Roundup - Aaron Rawlake

Sport: Men’s Volleyball

What year(s) did you compete for Lakeland:  1993 - 1997

How did playing for the Rustlers help you get to where you are today?

The values of teamwork, communication, and leadership were the greatest things I took away from my experiences as a Rustler, tools I use every day in my career.

Where are you working right now and what are you doing? 

I am a licensed realtor for Century 21 Drive in Lloydminster.

Are you still involved with volleyball now?  Coaching/ playing etc.

In 1999 I was the assistant coach of the women’s volleyball team and then took over the head coaching role from 2000 – 2003 when Kim Marchand retired.  I also have spent many years coaching with the Rustlers Club Volleyball program and helped run the program with Lakeland, coaches Austin and Taylor Dyer.  Currently entering my 3rd year as an assistant coach for Taylor Dyer and the Men’s Volleyball team at Lakeland.  I still remember when I was working as the Athletics Coordinator when we hosted the CCAA Women’s National Volleyball Championships in 2013 and Lakeland won our first CCAA medal.  Everyone pulled together to make that happen.

What was your favorite moment at Lakeland as a student-athlete?

Being on the first Lakeland team that went to playoffs in the current format. Off the court, the bus breaking down and stranding the teams in Whitecourt for hours at a local hotel/lounge. 

Are you still close with any former teammates?

I keep in contact with many of my former teammates.  Most often with Terry Romanow (Ag business '97), Terry and I chat all the time, and our families have grown up together.  I’ve recently got to reconnect with Todd Nelson as his son Jarrett is a current Rustler on the volleyball team who I get to coach.

If you could give a couple of words of advice to our current Rustlers what would it be?

I get to do this a lot in my role as an assistant for the team.  Most often I remind the guys to be good teammates, enjoy the friendships, and appreciate the experience.  Also, I like to remind them to "participate and graduate"

Any additional words of wisdom?

The program has meant a lot to me over the years.  Having the experience of being a player, administrator (07-13), and coach.  Being a Rustler has shaped me into the good human I think I am today.  My wife and I were proud to set up a scholarship that goes to a Men’s Volleyball player annually at Lakeland.  I want to challenge all alumni to give back to the program, either through a scholarship or the Adopt a Rustler program.  Every contribution goes to the athletics department or the  program you choose and it will directly impact  student-athletes who are Rustlers just like us.