The Niagara Knights men's volleyball team wrapped up opening weekend of the 2012-2013 season earning a split in their first two regular season games. Friday, November 3rd saw the Knights lose 3-0 to a talented Nipissing Lakers team. While on Sunday, November 4th the Knights rebounded to defeat the Canadore Panthers 3-0.
The Knights struggled early against the Lakers, losing the first set 25-13. Head Coach Nathan Groenveld commented that "Nipissing is one of the top teams in the province, and with 6 first year players in our lineup, our opening set was a matter of nerves." Groenveld felt the Knights "settled down over the next two sets but Nipissing had all the momentum." 6-foot-5 middle blocker Sam Youlton "played well and battled all night" said Groenveld. The 5th year Construction student from Chatham, Ontario finished the game with 5 kills and a dig.
Sunday saw the Knights play a much stronger game against the Canadore Panthers. Led offensively by 6-foot-6 outside hitter Shayne Petrusma, the Knights defeated the Panthers 3-0. The 5th year Paramedic student finished the game with 15 kills, 9 digs, and a stuff block.
Groenveld felt his team developed "some good offensive rhythm, and some good defensive blocking, which we turned into points on the scoreboard." Also having strong games for the Knights were a pair of first year outside hitters, Jeff Scott and Ben Fillmore. Scott a 6-foot-4 native of Georgetown, Ontario recorded 12 kills and 6 digs. Fillmore finished the game with 4 kills, and served very well for the Knights recording 2 service aces.
The Knights next game is scheduled for Thursday, November 8th as the team travels to Sheridan. The Knights next home appearance is against the Conestoga Condors on Saturday, November 10th at 4:00pm at the Welland Campus athletic centre.
All Niagara College varsity sport home games this season are free admission.
