Laker men off to fast v-ball start (new)

Marc Larochelle, sports information officer at Nipissing University, submitted this report:

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The Nipissing Lakers men’s volleyball team started the season on a high, defeating the Ontario College Athletic Association defending provincial champions Niagara Knights in straight sets, (25-20, 25-18, 25-21).

The Lakers, facing a much bigger Niagara squad, used their quick transitional game to keep the defence guessing.

“We knew we would be in tough against the defending OCAA champions in their home gym,” said head coach Duane Culin. “Great serving and a solid transition game was the key to our victory. I was happy that we were able to maintain a high level of play and intensity throughout the entire match.”

The Lakers rookie power hitter Seamus Strutt had a breakout game pounding 13 kills against an intimidating Niagara block. Strutt finished with 16 points on 13 kills, one stuff block and two service aces. Ian Sharp added eight points on six kills and two aces while Eric Yung had six kills and one ace.

Sunday the Lakers earned the weekend sweep, defeating Sheridan 3-1 (25-20, 25-16, 26-28, 25-6).

Despite losing the third set the Lakers were able to control the match and finish in convincing fashion. Lakers setter Jacob Carr distributed the ball well and Strutt once again led the offense with 19 points on 14 kills, two stuff blocks and three aces. Yung had 12 kills and one ace, followed by Sharp with five kills, four stuff blocks and two aces.

“It is very hard at times for teams to come out after a big win and execute as they did the previous game, especially on the road,” said Culin. “Despite a lapse in the third set we maintained our composure and finish the match on a strong note. Starting the season 2-0 is a great confidence boost for our team.”

On the women’s side, the Lakers came up short in a five set battle that saw the Niagara Knights hand the Lady Lakers their first defeat of the season, (25-17, 23-25, 20-25, 25-21, 11-15).

Despite a strong start that saw the Lakers take the first set in convincing fashion, the passing broke down and the game plan was not followed allowing Niagara to run off two straight set victories. The Lady Lakers fought hard and on the strength of Megan Stacey’s attack forcing a fifth and deciding set. The Lakers were leading 6-3 however poor passing and unforced errors proved costly as the Knights prevailed 15-11.

“A weakness has been exposed on this team and it is going to be addressed,” said head coach John Jeffries. “It is time that this team becomes tougher mentally and when we are given opportunities to run points we must execute. We cannot just rely on one player. It is time for other players to step up their game.”

Stacey led the Lakers offense with 26 points on 15 kills, eight stuff blocks and three aces followed by Lynn Danis with 10 kills and four stuff blocks.

Sunday, the Lady Lakers came out with more energy and rebounded, defeating Sheridan in straight sets. (25-9, 25-8, 25-13) The much improved passing allowed the Lakers to execute their transition game and Kelly Ramakko provided some great defense behind the block.

“While we played much better today the team needs to focus more on executing game plans and attacking the opposition’s weaknesses,” said Jeffries. “We did a better job of taking away the middle of the floor today.”

Stacey led the offense with 12 kills and one stuff block followed by Ramakko who added four kills and three service aces.

The Lady Laker host Lambton Friday at 7 p.m. Both the men’s and ladies teams will be in action Saturday as the St. Clair Saints visit the Robert J Surtees Athletics Centre. The women start things off at 5 p.m. followed by the men at 7 p.m.