REDS Add Hitter

(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB REDS women’s volleyball team is adding 6’1” hitter Jillian Lightfoot, of Halifax, to their recruiting class of 2026.

The 17-year-old, completing her Grade 12 year at Halifax West High School, has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent and will join the REDS ahead of the 2026-2027 Atlantic University Sport season.

“Jillian is going to add some great size to our roster,” said REDS’ head coach Lauren Hale-Miller. “She’s athletic, works extremely hard, and competes every time she’s on the court.”

“I was drawn to UNB because of the competitive spirit, strong sense of teamwork, and pride,” said Lightfoot. “I was drawn to the encouraging atmosphere and the chance to keep growing as a teammate and athlete while being part of a program that emphasizes dedication and hard work.”

A veteran member of the varsity team at Halifax West, Lightfoot helped the Warriors to provincial championships in 2024 and 2026.

At the club level, she’s a member of the Bedford Blizzards under-18 side.

Lightfoot is also a participant in Nova Scotia’s Provincial Excellence Program and was a member of the province’s 2025 Canada Games team.

“I’ll contribute a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and effective communication,” said Lightfoot. “I'm always ready to put in the effort during practices and games to advance my abilities and support the team's success. I want to be dependable, encouraging, and committed to assisting the team in success.”

Lightfoot says her short-term goals with the REDS include improving her abilities and helping her new teammates on and off the court. Longer term, she wants to develop into a reliable and consistent student-athlete who can be counted on during crucial times.

“She’s a great person and teammate, which matters a lot to us,” says Coach Hale-Miller. “We’re excited to have her come in, compete right away, and keep growing in our program.”

Lightfoot joins Halifax West teammate Lola McPherson, a 5’11” middle, in the REDS’ 2026 recruiting class.

Lightfoot will study Kinesiology while attending UNB.

STORY BY: Andy Campbell/UNB REDS

PHOTO: Submitted