In a fast-paced game, the University of Toronto Varsity Blues women’s volleyball team defeated the Lakehead Thunderwolves 3-0 (25-15, 25-18, 25-16) for the second time this weekend in the Athletic Centre Sports Gym. 

The first set started out as a back and forth struggle but ultimately the Blues took the lead with the excellent hits from Kristina Valjas (Toronto) and Heather Bansley of Waterdown, Ont. Fifth-year middle Lauren Willoughby (Unionville, Ont.) would make the final strike in a convincing 25-15 game-on victory. 

The Wolves battled back in the second, tying up the game twice early on. However, Toronto’s CIS all-Canadian, Bansley, responded with two consecutive kills. Thunder Bay, Ont. native Karla Brayshaw pushed back for the Lakehead, frequently blocking the Blues’ attempts and trying to keep her team within striking distance. 

Katrina Rossall (Calgary, Alta.) recorded two massive kills for the Blues bringing the score to set point, 24-16, before second-year outside hitter Amy Sweetman of Kingston, Ont. ended the rally 25-18. 

Up two sets to none, Toronto kept up their early intensity - not wanting to let Lakehead back in the match. Setter Kathleen Mahannah (North Vancouver, B.C.) and Toronto native Michelle Wood tallied up for the Blues with multiple digs as Willoughby repeatedly blocked the Thunderwolves shot attempts. 

The Blues were able to maintain a six point cushion throughout the final set before ending the second game in as many days with a comfortable nine-point advantage, 25-16. 

Valjas and Karlee Diesing (Coquitlam, B.C) led the Blues with 12 kills each and nine digs, Bansley added six kills and four digs of her own. Mahannah was named the Varsity Blues player of the game for her incredible teamwork with a kill, six digs, and an impressive 41 assists. 

Brayshaw led the Thunderwolves with seven kills and six digs. Of note, Wolves setter Janna McDonald came through with five digs and 21 assists. 

The Blues return to the court next Saturday, January 30th at the Athletic Centre to take on the Queen’s Gaels. The game is scheduled for 4 p.m. 

For more information, scores and highlights on your favourite Toronto teams, please visit the home of the Varsity Blues at http://www.varsityblues.ca.