Brandon University Dick and Verda McDonald Sports Wall of Fame
Paul Sanderson was dubbed the 'Thunder from Down Under' and he certainly lived up to the hype.
The Melbourne, Australia product came to Brandon in 2007 and made an instant impact as a powerhouse outside hitter. He led Canada West in kills while being named a first-team conference all-star. Sanderson was also selected as a second-team all-Canadian, becoming the first BU men's volleyball player to ever receive the accolade.
Sanderson's success continued in 2008-2009 as he guided the Bobcats to its first-ever appearance at the national championship tournament while helping them win their first-ever bronze medal. He was named a national tournament all-star, a first-team all-Canadian and a first-team conference all-star.
In 2009-2010, Sanderson's legacy continued to grow after having one of the most decorated seasons in program history. He was named U SPORTS player of the year, a first-team all-Canadian, Canada West MVP and a first-team conference all-star.
The Australian superstar returned the following season to play out the final year of his career. He was selected as a first-team Canada West all-star and a first-team all-Canadian. Sanderson also helped the Bobcats reach a new milestone as they finished runner-up for the national championship. Sanderson was named a tournament all-star for guiding the Bobcats to the first-ever silver medal.
Sanderson's career concluded in 2011, but his name still remains at the top of the Canada West record books. He's the conferences all-time leader in kills per-set, points per-set and service aces.
Sanderson also succeeded in the classroom, being named an academic all-Canadian, while earning a bachelor's degree in physical education while at BU and later a master's degree in coaching.
His amazing volleyball story includes triumph over adversity. In 2014, he overcame a cancer scare to secure a spot on the Australian national team. Just six months after being diagnosed, Sanderson and the Aussies were competing in the FIVB World League.
Sanderson has also travelled the world playing professionally in six different countries while winning multiple league championships.
