Camrose, AB (April 2, 2026) – 

ACAC COACHING EXCELLENCE AWARD, STEVE ENRIGHT: 

The Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) is proud to announce that Steve Enright of the Augustana Vikings has been named the recipient of the 2025-2026 ACAC Overall Coaching Excellence Award.

Coach Steve Enright has transformed the team into a consistent force within the ACAC and on the national stage, after his presence taking over has head coach was immediately felt in 2019. His leadership has guided the Vikings to three CCAA National Championship appearances, with the team capturing ACAC silver in both seasons and establishing itself as a perennial championship contender. On top of that, Enright has achieved the best result from a Vikings team sport on the National stage, after securing the fourth place title in the 2026 CCAA National Championships.

Enright’s approach is rooted in preparation, accountability, and a belief in continual growth—values that have shaped the identity of the program. Under his direction, the Vikings have consistently competed for ACAC titles, building a reputation for resilience and high-level performance in one of the country’s most competitive conferences.

His success has not gone unnoticed. Enright has been recognized with four Coach of the Year honours and has been nominated for CCAA Coach of the Year three times, reflecting the respect he has earned from colleagues and competitors across the nation.

While the results on the court speak for themselves, Enright’s impact extends far beyond wins and medals. He is deeply committed to developing well-rounded student-athletes, fostering a culture where athletes are challenged to grow both as competitors and as people. Through that commitment, he has built a program defined not only by success, but by pride, teamwork, and a standard of excellence that continues to elevate Augustana Vikings volleyball.

“As a former player of Steve’s, I’ve experienced firsthand the culture he builds and the standard he sets,” says Vikings Athletic Coordinator, Emily Peterson. “His commitment goes far beyond the sport itself—he genuinely invests in each athlete as a person. That approach creates deep trust within the team and gives players the confidence to push beyond what they thought was possible. The environment he’s built is one where athletes grow, believe in themselves, and achieve at the highest level, and that’s a big reason why this Women’s Volleyball team continues to be one of the best in the country.”

For additional information, contact:

David Ritz, University of Alberta-Augustana
Vikings Business and Operations Coordinator 
dritz@ualberta.ca

Emily Peterson, University of Alberta-Augustana
Vikings Athletics Coordinator 
pe1@ualberta.ca

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