November 17, 2024
WINDSOR, ON: The Niagara Knights men's volleyball team (5-3) travelled over 350 kilometres to take on the St. Clair Saints (2-5). The Knights made full use of their trip, stretching the match to a 3-2 victory (set scores were 25-23, 22-25, 13-25, 25-23 and 21-19).
For the second time in as many games, the Knights played as much volleyball as possible and came out with another victory. A tough clash to begin the game saw the Knights come out with the 1st set victory before dropping the next two sets to go down 2-1 in the match. Coming out of the 3rd set, the Knights found a spark in Micah Nieuwets as he provided the team with great leadership and composure on the court that propelled them to a tightly contested 4th set victory. After gaining a few extra points in the 5th set, the Knights were able to get out of the game triumphant, winning the final set 21-19. Out of province first-years, Wizdom Smith (Winnipeg, Manitoba) and Rowan Redekop (Surrey, British Columbia), combined for a total of 31 points on 22 kills, 8 digs, 6 blocks, 3 service aces and 2 assists as they led the Knights to victory. Setter, Matthew Perron, contributed a phenomenal 37 assists to the campaign while defensive specialist, Noah Trembly, kept rallies going with 13 digs throughout the match.
"We love the five set thrillers it seems" Steve Stone, head coach of the Knights, said as he chuckled after the win. Stone continued to praise the team as he discussed the "response and show of resiliency that was displayed to come away with wins in these tight games. There were lots of contributions from a variety of guys – definitely a full team effort in this one, which is a testament to our depth."
The Knights get the week off to rest and prepare for their weekend tilt against the visiting Cambrian Golden Shield (3-3) and Boreal Vipers (0-6). The Knights will take to the court on Saturday, November 23rd at 3pm to face off against the Golden Shield before doing it all over again the next day against the Vipers at 2pm. Come out to cheer on your Knights to victory at the Simplii Financial Athletic Centre at the Welland Campus. If you are unable to watch the match in person, catch all the action live on the Niagara Knights YouTube channel.
