The Niagara College Men's Volleyball Program lost for the first time since November 30, 2012 Wednesday night, suffering a five-set loss to the defending CCAA National Champion Humber Hawks. The set scores for the match were 27-25, 25-23, 25-27, 17-25, 15-12. Even with the loss, the 14-4 Knights still managed to secure an OCAA West Division Title, their first since 2006-07.
Despite the loss, Knights' Head Coach Nathan Groenveld said "I could not be more proud of the season we have had so far, but our team knows we have two goals to accomplish in the next three weeks.
The dramatic back and forth affair against the Hawks took place in a loud Humber Athletic Centre during the school's 'seniors' night.' Niagara College Head Coach Nathan Groenveld commented "there was a lot of energy and a big crowd for seniors' night, and Humber was battling to advance their position in the upcoming OCAA playoffs."
The emotionally charged Hawks came out of the gate strong winning the first two sets riding the dominant offensive and defensive game of imposing six-foot-nine middle blocker Andre Brown. The fourth-year Mississauga native was outstanding for the Hawks finishing the match with 16 total points including five stuff blocks.
The Knights battled back in sets three and four, after making changes to their game plan. In an attempt to slow down Brown, the Knights countered with their own physically dominant middle blocker. Fifth-year Chatham native Sam Youlton was outstanding for the Knights in the second half of the match.
Coach Groenveld felt "Sam carried us through five sets. He had 14 kills, an ace, five blocks, for 20 total points!"
The dominant play of Youlton allowed the Knights to earn victories in sets three and four. The 25-17 fourth set victory by the Knights was the only game of the evening settled by more than three points.
The Hawks edged out a three point victory in the final set, and Coach Groenveld spoke very highly of the Hawks' play. "I give all the credit in the world to Humber. They put a tremendous amount of serving pressure on us, which allowed them to get their blocking rhythm very quickly, which they sustained most of the night."
Despite the loss, the Knights captured the OCAA West Region title, and will receive a bye into the OCAA Championship hosted by Sheridan College February 21-23rd. The team's first game is set for Thursday, February 21st at 3:00pm versus the winner of a qualification match between Seneca and Nipissing.
Niagara College is hosting the 2013 Ironwood Wealth Management Group CCAA Men's Volleyball National Championship from March 7-9th. As the host, the Niagara College Men's Volleyball Program will receive automatic entry into the event. Tickets are on sale now and for more information please contact 905-735-2211 ext: 7583 & 7681.
