Going on the road and facing a team that has averaged 15 regular season wins over the past three years is never an easy task. The Knights are coming off a week where they dropped two tough matches, lost a six game win streak and fell from the CCAA national ranking.
On Thursday, December 4, the Niagara College women's volleyball (7-2, 2nd West) program wanted to put everything behind them and get back to their dominate performance on the court. On the road to play the competitive Fanshawe Falcons (3-6, 7th West), the Knights won in straight sets, 25-19 25-18-25-23. This marks the fifth time this season that Niagara has won in straight sets.
Third year outside hitter Linnea Davis (Brampton) led the Knights offensively with 11 points, while adding 11 digs. "I thought Linnea had a great game today," said fourth year head coach Joey Martins. "She had some fantastic digs early on, served well throughout the match, and came through in the clutch when we needed her at the end of the third set."
OCAA assists leader Bailey Davis (Georgetown) had another 24 assists while also connecting for three service aces.
Coach Martins wanted to head into the break with a very important win. "Heading into the holidays on a positive note was very important for this program," added Martins. "We now have a break to heal injuries, so it was important we gave everything tonight against a tough Fanshawe team."
The previous two volleyball seasons saw the Knights being able to only reach eight wins; however they have already won seven this year. One major difference is the new coaching model at Niagara College, which has allowed coach Martins to better prepare day to day. It has also allowed him to go out and recruit top level players from all over Ontario.
According to Martins, the biggest reason for this programs success so far this year is due to his athletes' commitment level. "We have assembled a great group of student-athletes that are committed to not only volleyball, but their academics as well," said coach Martins. "We practice three mornings and five evenings a week to prepare for provincials and possibly even nationals, while committing just as many hours toward academic study sessions. This hard work has paid off so far, but I think it will truly show second semester when we continue to get stronger."
The next regular season matchup for the Knights will not be until January 7 at Humber College. The next home game for Niagara will not be until January 16 when they host the Redeemer Royals.
