Nichols was born and raised in Medicine Hat where she graduated in 2021 from Medicine Hat High School. She has played school and club volleyball in Medicine Hat since she was 11 years old.  

Nichols is currently finishing her Business Administration diploma at Medicine Hat College and playing with the MHC Rattlers volleyball team. During her two years with the Rattlers, she has a variety of positions on the team. In her first year, she was awarded the Most Improved Women's Volleyball Player of the Year. 

 

In her first year of college, Nichols also played for the Rattlers women's golf team, where she made the ACAC all-conference team.  The golf team won first in the ACAC Conference final and went on to play at the CCAA Nationals in Windsor, ON.  As a dual sport athlete, Nichols was named 2021/2022 MHC Rattlers female rookie of the year.  

 

"I am very excited to be joining the Avalanche program next year," Nichols said. "I look forward to continuing my academics at the College, living in the Kootenays, and being a member of the volleyball family Coach Fraser has created!"

 

While at COTR, Nichols will balance her commitment to the team with studies in the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Sustainable Business Practices program. 

 

"I am extremely excited to have Ella joining our women's volleyball program next year," said women's coach Bryan Fraser. "I had a great feeling about her ever since our first meeting as she fits everything we are looking for in a recruit. Not only is she coming in with CCAA playing experience, but she has a strong desire to learn and take her game to the next level to help our team battle in this difficult PACWEST league. I'm excited to begin working with Ella next season and to seeing her grow and excel both on the court and in the classroom." 

 

The Avalanche volleyball program will be hosting the PACWEST Championships on February 24 and 25. Limited tickets are available through the College's gym office or over the phone at 250-489-2751 x3252.