The CCAA's No. 3 ranked Niagara Knights men's volleyball program extended their winning streak to five games this weekend with a pair of victory over the Cambrian Golden Shield and Boreal Vipers. The wins improve the Knights to 5-0 on the season and into sole possession of first place in the highly competitive OCAA West division.
For the fourth consecutive match the Knights were able to get the majority of their 12 player roster significant playing time. First-year players Matt Freisen (Grunthal, MB), Sameh Khdor (Kalamoun, Lebanon), Tristen Swinden (Whitby, ON), Tyler Vanderwal (St. Catharines, ON), Adam Vandendool (Jordan, ON), Curtis Graham (Elmvale, ON), and Jonathan Wismer (Beamsville, ON) all contributed to both wins for the OCAA's top-ranked Knights.
"This group has really embraced the process and is committed to getting better everyday" said Niagara College men's volleyball head coach Nathan Groenveld. "It is a fun group to coach right now as they are playing for each and are competing at a very high level. The opportunity for our young guys to get meaningful competitive reps in the tough OCAA West Division is crucial to their development."
The Knights managed to secure a pair of three set sweeps against their Sudbury based opponents on November 7th and 8th. The set scores against Cambrian (0-4) were 25-8, 25-14, 25-17. While Niagara defeated Boreal (1-4) 25-10, 25-19, 25-18.
The highlight of the weekend proved to be the play of second year setter Garrett Suderman. The Niverville, Manitoba native was "very impressive" said Groenveld. "He was nearly flawless in his decision making and execution and gave his hitters great opportunities to score." Suderman was named Niagara College male athlete of the week for his performance.
Groenveld continued "our ability as an entire group to focus at a high level, and execute at that level and capacity in matches is encouraging. We will continue to train and look forward to growing as a program."
The Knights will return to action on Saturday, November 13th at 3:00pm when the team hosts the Sheridan Bruins (2-2) at the Welland Athletic Centre. Tickets for the general public are $5.00 and free for students and those under the age of 17. For those unable to be in attendance, all Knights home games can be live streamed at www.goknights.ca/watchlive.
