2020 hasn't been a great year for athletes, and volleyball players are no exception. Azim Raheem, of North Albion Collegiate Institute, hasn't had much court time lately. Still, that doesn't mean the 2020 season has been a total bust.

A ticket to Harvard

In January, before the pandemic was in full swing, Azim played in a Chicago volleyball tournament, where his skill and stature (he's 6'7"!) impressed talent scouts from one of the world's most prestigious schools: Harvard University.

Azim was asked to apply. He was accepted for admission, and earned a place on the university's men's volleyball team. He'll also get a financial support package over the course of his degree! His volleyball skills were a factor in his acceptance, but his straight A grades certainly didn't hurt.

A leader on court and in class

Azim has been a leader on the volleyball court and in the classroom. His coaches and teachers describe him as humble and hard working. For his part, Azim is grateful for the support of his friends and loved ones. "Without them, I wouldn't be where I am today," he said.

Azim is the first North Albion Collegiate student to be accepted to Harvard. North Albion is a public school in Etobicoke, part of the Toronto District School Board.

He's played for Pakmen U17, a Canadian team, which was headed for the US Nationals before the pandemic hit. Azim's also played for Team Ontario Black and the U19 National Team. Only truly skilled players ever make it this far!

Congrats Azim

Congratulations from all of us on the ScholarshipsCanada team, Azim. Reaching Harvard is an incredible achievement, and we're sure you're headed for even greater accomplishments, in volleyball, school, and life.