The Carpenter High School Spartans senior boys volleyball team poses for a group photo after capturing the 5A Carlton Invitational title in Prince Albert on Oct. 19. (CHS/Facebook)

By Kenneth Cheung

THE SPARTANS

Carpenter High Spartans win Carlton Invitational after breakthrough run in Prince Albert

Oct 23, 2025 | 2:51 PM

The Carpenter High School Spartans senior boys volleyball team capped off a strong weekend with a championship win at the 5A Carlton Invitational in Prince Albert.

Head coach Cheyne Dallyn said the team found its rhythm early, finishing with a 2–1 record on the first day and gaining momentum through the playoffs. The Spartans beat Kindersley and North Battleford Comprehensive in straight sets but dropped a close three-set match to Lloydminster Comprehensive.

They went on to sweep Melfort in the quarterfinal, edge host Carlton Comprehensive in a tight three-set semifinal, and defeat St. Mary’s High School of Prince Albert in two straight to clinch the title.

Dallyn said the weekend showed the team’s progress in consistency — something they’ve worked toward all season.

“We’ve been preaching consistency all season and just trying to bring your best at all games,” he said. “The boys really took a step forward in doing that as a group.”

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He added that the win was the product of both teamwork and individual excellence. Quinn Shakotko and Brett Ackerman stood out on offence, while libero Kalem Klassen anchored the defensive side.

“Players being super consistent, and then just willing to sell out for each other to lead to this win,” Dallyn said.

The coach credited years of local coaching and player development for the team’s success, saying the Spartans program thrives on homegrown talent.

“This is just a team from Carpenter High School in Meadow Lake — no scouting, just our local talent,” he said. “It’s just been a lot of time and effort put in by coaches … throughout the years to get them to this point.”

After several near-misses this season, Dallyn said finally breaking through felt rewarding.

“It’s just nice to finally push over that hump of making it into a final and playing some of our best ball of the season,” he said.

The Spartans now turn their focus to regional and provincial tournaments in the coming weeks.

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Kenneth.cheung@pattisonmedia.com