October 18, 2025
LONDON, ONT: The Niagara College women's volleyball team (1-0) started their season on the road heading into London to take on the Fanshawe Falcons (0-1). The ladies came out of this game with a 3-1 victory (set scores were 27-25, 14-25, 25-17 and 25-21).
After a tough fought first set that saw the Knights take an early lead before Fanshawe was able to climb back, the Knights were able to secure the last 2 points of the set and take the 1-0 lead. Moving into the second set, a series of mishit balls by the Knights saw the Falcons take the early lead. Unfortunately, the Knights could not clean things up quick enough as the Falcons tied the match up at 1 game apiece. The Knights were able to turn the tables in the third set as they started off with an ace by Tia Kelly and they didn't look back the rest of the way, taking an 8 point set win. The fourth set was a back-and-forth affair that ultimately saw the Knights go on a run to take a commanding lead that they wouldn't give up and end up with the 3-1 set victory. Sam Cormier led the Knights with 21 points, 15 kills, 10 digs, 5 aces and 1 block. Tia Kelly played a great game as she contributed 31 assists, 8 digs and 3 aces.
"It's nice starting the season off in a bronze medal rematch and walking away with a win on the road" said Steve Stone, head coach of the Knights. Stone continued to say that "the ladies played within themselves and put the ball away when they had an opportunity to – all while playing with control and confidence. Abbey Gooder had an outstanding game in every aspect of the match and Sam (Cormier) was unstoppable! I felt everyone was able to contribute and start the season off on the right foot."
The Knights get to rest up for the week before taking the long road trip up to Sault Ste. Marie to battle against the Sault Cougars (0-0). The weekend matches are set for 6pm on Saturday and 1pm on Sunday – catch all the Knights action on OCAA Live.
For more information on the Knights' teams, please visit us at www.goknights.ca.
