KELOWNA, B.C. - Former UBCO Heat women's volleyball head coach Steve Manuel was named one of five recipients of UBC's President's Service Awards of Excellence on Monday.

The President's Service Awards for Excellence are presented each year to up to five outstanding staff members. The PSAE acknowledges staff who have made outstanding contributions to UBC, and who excel in their personal achievements.

Steve Manuel

Head Coach, Women's Volleyball, UBCO Heat
Steve Manuel (he/him) has dedicated more than 25 years to helping UBC's student-athletes realize their full potential. Through coaching, mentorship, and community stewardship, he has built a legacy that extends far beyond the volleyball court.

Service excellence

Steve has played a defining role in the growth of athletics at UBC Okanagan, helping guide the university's transition into Canada West and U SPORTS while establishing one of Canada's most respected women's volleyball programs. While his teams have earned numerous provincial and national accolades, he is equally known for fostering an environment where academic achievement, personal growth, and athletic excellence are valued in equal measure.

Driving positive change

Under Steve's direction, the UBCO Heat Volleyball program has become a cornerstone of youth sport engagement in the region, reaching more than 1,000 young athletes annually. He has also championed initiatives that support the holistic development of student-athletes, including nutrition education, mental performance training, and sport psychology workshops. To ensure student-athletes benefit from positive female role models, Steve also secured "Women in Coaching" bursaries to hire female staff, increasing representation within the program and fostering more inclusive environments.

Impact across communities

Steve has strengthened communities both locally and nationally through partnerships that connect sport, education, and personal growth. His long-standing work with Volleyball Nunavut provides experiential learning opportunities for student-athletes while expanding access to sport in northern and Indigenous communities. Through mentorship, relationship-building, and a commitment to helping others succeed, Steve continues to make a lasting impact on generations of athletes, coaches, and community members.

For a complete list of this year's recipients, read the full announcement from UBC Human Resources.