As a setter, OUA Player of the Year Markus Law-Heese serves as the offensive architect for the Lancers. (PHOTO SUBMITTED BY WINDSOR LANCERS/UNIVERSITY OF WINDSOR)
By John-Paul Bonadonna
Markus Law-Heese’s reflection on his time at the University of Windsor as a member of the Lancers men’s volleyball team is simple and straightforward.
“It’s the best thing that could have happened to me,” says Markus.
He defines his five-year journey as a time of personal growth, brotherhood with his teammates, and now, the opportunity to end his university career on the biggest stage in Canadian university volleyball.
“It’s nice to cap our final season with home games, playing against the best volleyball teams in Canada, in our own backyard,” Markus states.
“We’ve put so much work into this. It’s special.”
Law-Heese’s recruitment to Windsor came through connections built on the beach volleyball circuit, where he first developed relationships with several future teammates.
His connection to the sport was familial.
He’s the son of Mark Heese, a three-time beach volleyball Olympian and medallist, having won bronze in Atlanta in 1996.
It was Canada’s first medal in the sport.
“My Dad is my biggest supporter, my biggest role model and my hero,” says Markus.
“That’s what influenced my decision to play volleyball more than anything because he certainly never pressured me. He encouraged me to do whatever I wanted to do — but to do whatever that turned out to be — well.”
The quarterback of the court
As a setter, Law-Heese serves as the offensive architect for the Lancers, orchestrating plays and ensuring teammates are in position to succeed. The role demands sharp decision-making, leadership and composure under pressure — traits he has developed alongside a deeply talented roster.
“He was the OUA Player of the Year last year and an academic All-Canadian,” proudly proclaims men’s volleyball head coach James Gravelle.
“He’s an excellent leader and should be All-Canadian again this year. He’s well on his way towards perhaps one day playing in the Olympics himself.”
Markus is quick to deflect individual praise. His OUA recognition, he insists, is a testament to the team around him.
“That award doesn’t happen if my teammates aren’t putting the ball away after I set it,” he said.
“Especially as a setter, it’s really a team award.”
A brotherhood built over time
The Lancers’ veteran core has helped shape one of the most experienced and tightly bonded teams in the country. The relationships within the group extend far beyond the game.
Law-Heese lives with several teammates, further strengthening connections forged through countless practices, road trips and shared milestones.
“You go through rough times and good times together and those bonds show on the court,” says Markus.
Ready for the moment
Hosting the national championship brings both opportunity and pressure. High-level exhibition matches against nationally ranked opponents have tested the team and provided valuable experience against championship-calibre competition.
“We’re looking to prime at the right time,” Markus says.
“That’s the most important part — playing our best volleyball when the title is on the line.”
Competing at home also gives the Lancers the advantage of a passionate Lancers fan base.
Law-Heese still vividly remembers the electric atmosphere during last season’s marquee home match at the OUA Forsyth Cup — an environment he describes as the most energized crowd he has ever played in front of.
“We want that energy again,” he says.
“When the crowd is engaged, they become part of the match. It’s incredible to play in that.”
Carrying the shield
As his university career nears its final chapter, Markus takes immense pride in representing the Windsor Lancers and the university community.
“The Windsor Shield is powerful,” he says.
“When I wear it, I feel like I’m protecting it and representing something bigger than myself. It motivates me. It’s a source of pride.”
That pride, combined with experience, talent and an unbreakable bond among teammates, sets the stage for a storybook finish.
With the national championship returning to Windsor, Markus and his Lancers teammates have the chance to create a legacy that will resonate long after the final point is played.