Riolina commits to the Tigers for 2026-27 season.
Coach Ota is excited to welcome Richmond Hill, ON native Massimiliano Riolina to the men's volleyball team.
The 6'7 outside hitter most recently competed with Durham Attack Blast, where he helped lead his team to a gold medal at the 17U Grand Prix, a bronze medal at the 17U Provincial Championship, and a third-place finish at the 17U National Championship in Edmonton.
This season, Riolina helped his team secure gold at Pittsburgh's Steel City 18 Open Championship Tournament. His Durham Attack squad is also currently undefeated in the OVA 18U season.
Riolina has been involved with Team Ontario programs during the summer since 2022 and took part in the team's international training camp in Slovenia last summer. During the 2023–24 season, he was also the recipient of the OVA Medal of Excellence Award.
Off the court, Riolina earned honour roll status in Grade 11 and received the Technology Award in Grade 10. He will begin his studies in management this fall.
When asked about choosing Dalhousie, Riolina pointed to the overall environment as a key factor. He enjoys Halifax and, more importantly, sees it as a place where he can grow as both a person and a player over the next four to five years. He also values the level of support student-athletes receive to succeed on and off the court.
Riolina shared his thoughts on joining the Black & Gold this fall:
"I couldn't be more excited to be a part of Dalhousie and play for the Tigers," said Riolina. "It feels like a perfect fit to pursue my academic goals while continuing to develop and reach my volleyball aspirations."
