Lakehead welcomea the CIS #7 ranked U of Toronto Varsity Blues to the Thunderdome.
The Blues are quickly proving that they are more than the 7th best team in Canada, having made the gold medal game against the CIS champion Manitoba Bison in the Unruh Challenge last weekend in Winnipeg.
Led by 5th year Jennifer Neilsen, one of the most dominant right sides in the CIS, Toronto brings size and athleticism to the floor. Middles Sarah Chapin and Bojana Rodan provide depth and strength; add in Charlotte Sider and they represent a lethal offence for any team to contend with.
“There is so much depth on this team to attend too,” says Lakehead coach Chris Green. “We’re a lot younger than last year, so we need to realize that we’re a work in progress and define ourselves by our work ethic and drive to improve every day.”
“For success against Toronto, we’ll need to stay aggressive, but limit our errors to as few as possible.”
This weekend will be the first opportunity for volleyball fans to see hometown athlete Vanessa Masters in the starting setter’s role, one she has earned after three years of hard work.
Fourth year left side Jen Casey will also be in a starting role this weekend, along with Jasmine Fox, Breanne Hilhorst and rookie middle Rheanna Geisel of Dauphin, Manitoba.
“We look forward to the challenge of facing this team on Saturday,” mentions Coach Green. “They will be a test for all of the OUA and CIS this year. [Coach] Kristine Drakitch is as accomplished a coach as any in OUA.”
Green concludes, “This weekend will be a strong test for our group. The first of 19 strong tests this season.”
Weekend Schedule vs U of Toronto
Saturday, Oct 18, 7:00pm
