Lakers split weekend series

HAMILTON, ON – The Nipissing University Lakers volleyball teams split weekend series with Redeemer and Mohawk in OCAA weekend action.

Friday, the men’s volleyball team hit the court against the Redeemer Royals and this match did not disappoint. The atmosphere was electric and the players for both squads put on a show and in the end the home town Royals edged the Lakers in a five set marathon 3-2 (18-25, 25-18, 19-25, 25-19, 15-8).

“It was nice to see how well the guys responded and how well they played in such a loud and intimidating atmosphere,” said Lakers left side Jamie VanderZande. “We did a good job passing their tough serves but we failed to execute at a few key times and that was the difference in the 5th set.”

Adam Leblanc led the Lakers offense with 13 points followed by Andre Leblanc who added 11 points.

Coach Grant Ross noted that his teams’ passing has improved in the second half allowing them to put pressure on teams. As for the difference in the match Ross had this to say; “We just broke down a bit late in that game, but their big ride side (Ryan Talsma) was too much for us today. He isn’t an all-Canadian for nothing, and he showed that today. Overall we were pleased with our effort in a very tough Redeemer gym.”

Saturday the Lakers swept the forth ranked Mohawk Mountaineers (11-3) 3-0 (25-22, 25-23, 25-21) improving their record to 8-5.

“We came out firing on all cylinders, and the boys didn’t let up the entire match. It is important that we are peaking just before playoffs and hopefully we can keep the momentum going,” said VanderZande.

Adam Leblanc once again led the offense with 11 points while Andre Leblanc and VanderZande each added 9.

“While we had a great team effort, I thought a couple of guys have really stepped up lately. Matt Rice has moved from right side to left side and has played well for us both passing and attacking. Alex Spottiswood came in today and played well as a libero. He made a spectacular dig in the third that helped swing that game our way. We are improving and gaining experience with each tough game we play," added Ross.

On the women’s side the Lady Lakers swept the Redeemer Royals 3-0 (25-16, 25-15, 25-22).

Stefanie Hancock led the offense with 12 points while Laura Hudson added 8 points.

Saturday the Lady Lakers faced the third ranked Mohawk Mountaineers, who have been playing very well lately and the Lakers suffered their second loss of the season dropping a 3-1 (25-18, 14-25, 25-20, 25-17) decision.

“Overall it has not been a great week,” said head coach Marc LaRochelle.

“We had a significant number of girls fighting illnesses and it was very difficult getting prepared for such a high caliber match.

"On the other hand you have to play with the cards you are dealt and we simply didn’t execute well enough to win. We will learn from this loss and hopefully we can be healthy for our weekend matches.”

The Lakers will be back in action as they face the Sheridan Bruins Saturday and the Humber Hawks Sunday. The Lady Lakers kick things off at 12 followed by the men at 2:00 PM.