Meet the team

The Kingston Volleyball Academy is pleased to announce Coach (Ryan) Stoness as our Director of Volleyball. 

Coach Stoness brings over 30 years experience as a volleyball athlete  and 20 years experience in coaching and building the sport of volleyball in the Kingston Area. Coach Stoness is currently the Head Coach of the newly launched St. Lawrence Surge Women's Volleyball program https://slcsurge.com/sports/wvball/index and most recently lead the Loyalist Lancers Women’s Volleyball Program from 2019-2024 culminating in the programs first ever OCCA medal.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hycikZ9smew

When asked about his coaching philosophy and involvement with KVBA....
"My coaching philosophy is rooted in development and growth – creating positive experiences, fostering strong relationships, and prioritizing holistic athlete development. I emphasize a “team over me” mentality and encourage athletes to adopt a growth mindset. I am excited about the opportunity to work with our outstanding coaches and support them in  leading and growing  a new organization with a mission to create outstanding volleyball opportunities for youth in Kingston to play, grow, develop and love the sport of volleyball

Playing Experience:

Pegasus VC (2013-2015)

Queen's University (2015-2020) - Team Captain + OUA MVP + USPORTS First-Team All-Canadian

Team Canada NEP (2020-2021)

Xari Bulbul Susa (2023) Azerbaijan A1 - Pro

Athlos Orestiadas (2024) Greece A1 - Pro

Tourcoing Lille-Metropole (2024-2025) France A1 - Pro (Won French Cup Gold Medal)

SWD Duren Powervolleys (2025-2026) Germany A1 - Pro (Won Bronze in League Championship)

Coaching Experience:

Pegasus VC, Kingston Rock VC (2015-2023) - 16-18U Boys

HC Saints (2015-2023) - Junior/Senior Boys

Queen's University Assistant Coach (2021-2023) Men's and Women's

KVA Technical Director (Current)

Raised in Guelph, Ontario, started playing volleyball at age 12. She was part of the inaugural teams of the Guelph Grizzlies Volleyball Club (now Jr. Gryphons), competing as a left side until graduating from the club at 18U. Michaela then joined the University of Guelph Women’s Volleyball team, where she played right side in her rookie year, earning a spot on the OUA All-Rookie team. For her second and third seasons, she switched back to left side, securing First Team All-Star and Second Team All-Star honors, respectively.

Passionate about sharing her love for volleyball, Michaela has coached various groups, including junior and senior high school teams, university and college teams, and several volleyball clubs. She is thrilled to be involved with Kingston Volleyball Association and eager to contribute to the club.

With more than 30 years of playing experience, James brings exceptional knowledge, passion, and leadership to every athlete and team he works with. His accomplished playing career includes a KASSAA high school championship and league all-star recognition, followed by an OCAA silver medal and collegiate league all-star honour. On the international stage, James earned a gold medal representing Canada Masters at the Pan American Games.

A lifelong competitor, James continues to play at a high level in RYATT's competitive indoor and beach volleyball leagues, staying actively connected to the evolving demands of the sport.

Equally accomplished as a coach, James has spent the past eight seasons with the Senior Boys Volleyball program at Holy Cross Secondary School, helping athletes develop their skills, confidence, and competitive mindset. He also served as an assistant coach with the Loyalist College OCAA Women's Volleyball program for three seasons, contributing to the team's bronze medal finish in 2024.

James is a dedicated coach, respected mentor, and passionate advocate for athlete development, committed to helping players reach their full potential both on and off the court.

With more than 30 years of playing experience, James brings exceptional knowledge, passion, and leadership to every athlete and team he works with. His accomplished playing career includes a KASSAA high school championship and league all-star recognition, followed by an OCAA silver medal and collegiate league all-star honour. On the international stage, James earned a gold medal representing Canada Masters at the Pan American Games.

A lifelong competitor, James continues to play at a high level in RYATT's competitive indoor and beach volleyball leagues, staying actively connected to the evolving demands of the sport.

Equally accomplished as a coach, James has spent the past eight seasons with the Senior Boys Volleyball program at Holy Cross Secondary School, helping athletes develop their skills, confidence, and competitive mindset. He also served as an assistant coach with the Loyalist College OCAA Women's Volleyball program for three seasons, contributing to the team's bronze medal finish in 2024.

James is a dedicated coach, respected mentor, and passionate advocate for athlete development, committed to helping players reach their full potential both on and off the court.

With over 30 years of playing experience, Marben Espejo brings a deep passion and lifelong commitment to the sport of volleyball. As a dedicated Ontario Volleyball Association (OVA) club head coach and assistant coach, Marben has worked extensively with athletes from the U13 to U17 levels, fostering both skill development and a competitive mindset.

In addition to coaching, Marben is the co-owner and operator of indoor and beach volleyball leagues in Ryatt, where he continues to compete at a high level. His involvement in both coaching and league play reflects a well-rounded dedication to the sport.Driven by a genuine love for volleyball, Marben is passionate about giving back to the community by mentoring young athletes. His focus is on building strong fundamentals, cultivating confidence, and helping players stay competitive while reaching their full potential both on and off the court.

 Over the years volleyball has given me so many incredible opportunities. I was proud to serve as captain of the Kingston Rock Volleyball team for two years, be selected for TORP in 2022, captain my high school volleyball team for three seasons, and honoured to be named an all-star for all four years of high school volleyball. I’ve also played beach volleyball for the past three seasons as a way to continue developing my skills and love for the game. I’m so grateful for the experiences, teammates, and memories along the way 

Erin has four years of club volleyball experience and quickly developed a deep passion for the game. With each season, her dedication has only grown stronger, pushing her to improve despite challenges and setbacks. She is more then excited to introduce athletes to the game and be able to give back to the volleyball community. As a coach, she is determined to help develop athletes skills, while inspiring the same love for volleyball that’s she has.  

 Kingston Volleyball Academy

Developing volleyball athletes.  For the love of the game

Kingston Volleyball Academy (KVBA) provides athletes of all ages an opportunity to grow, learn and develop  in a fun, supportive and skilled based, learning environment.  Our academy is based in Kingston, Ontario, located at the Kingston Racquet Centre, 1025 Innovation Drive. 

Our programs focus on volleyball skill development, teamwork, and confidence building while keeping the fun and energy of the sport at the center of every session. Whether your child is a beginner or an experienced player, KVBA offers opportunities to train, play, and improve.

Founded in 2025, our goals at the Kingston Volleyball Academy ensures that every young athlete has the opportunity to participate, develop their skills, and build lasting friendships, both on and off the court.

1. Fun & Play Volleyball should be exciting, energizing, and full of joy for every player.  
2. Skill Development & Growth – We help athletes of all levels improve their volleyball abilities and confidence on and off the court.
3. Support & Encouragement – Every player is motivated, supported, and celebrated for their progress.
4. Teamwork & Connection – We promote collaboration, friendships, and respect among teammates.
5. Community Focus – KVBA builds connections with players, families, and the Kingston community through the love of volleyball.