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Lady Lakers win V-ball tourney (new)

Submitted by Marc Larochelle, sports information officer ——— BARRIE — The Nipissing University Lady Lakers volleyball team took Barrie by storm capturing gold at the Georgian invitational tournament The Lady Lakers, coming off a fourth-place finish a
Submitted by Marc Larochelle, sports information officer
———

BARRIE — The Nipissing University Lady Lakers volleyball team took Barrie by storm capturing gold at the Georgian invitational tournament

The Lady Lakers, coming off a fourth-place finish at the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association championships in 2003-2004, have set their sights on a medal for the upcoming year. The Lakers filled, with ambitious goals and high expectations, started their quest by going 3-0 in pool play defeating La Cite (25-13, 25-18), Boreal (25-12, 25-11) and Sheridan 25-13, 26-28, 15-4).

The Lakers demonstrated their depth as Aleda Carr and Carrie Baldwin stepped up their game on the left side as the Lakers were without two left sides for several matches. Kelly Ramakko showed great presence on the court with outstanding defensive play and work at the net.

The Lakers faced to hometown Grizzlies in the gold medal match. Despite being down 15-7 in the first match the Lakers showed great poise and determination and came back to win the first set 25-21. The Lakers then stepped it up and with solid passing from Jenna Irwin the setters Michelle Irwin and newcomer Christina Crozier were able to distribute the ball well confusing and frustrating the Georgian defence. The Lakers dominate the final set winning the game 25-11.

The Lakers speed was a definite asset as teams had difficulty adapting to the quick middle attack from Lynn Danis and Megan Stacey continued her dominance that earned her OCAA female volleyball player of the year, and CCAA all Canadian honours last year and was named the tournament MVP.

“This early tournament allowed our first year players to show what they bring to the team,” said head coach John Jeffries. “Our goal was to win the event and work on defence and ball distribution. Both setters ran a solid offense and our passing improved throughout the day.”

Although happy with the outcome the Lakers coaching staff have spotted areas that need improvement. “We still have a few things to work on but our work ethic is very strong. Our first year players are fitting in nicely and the team chemistry is really good,” added Jeffries

The Lady Lakers next challenge will be the Sheridan Paw Power tournament Oct. 22-23 which will feature six of the eight teams that were at the OCAA championships last season including defending champion Humber College.