The Varsity Blues women’s volleyball team suffered their first loss of 2012, dropping a 3-0 (21-25, 15-25, 17-25) decision to the Ottawa Gee-Gees on Saturday, January 21 in our nation’s capitol.

The loss drops Toronto to 9-4 and leaves them in a four-way tie with Ottawa, Queen’s and Brock for second-place in the OUA standings. The York Lions remain four points ahead in first place with an 11-1 record.

“We started strong in the first set and it looked like it was going to be a good battle,” said Varsity Blues head coach Kristine Drakich. “Ottawa got hot with some serves and we struggled in all parts of our game after that.”

Third-year left side hitter Rebecca Crosier led the Blues with five kills and 10 digs, while veteran Katrina Rossall had a team-high 16 digs. U of T setter Malena Rapaport recorded 17 assists and nine digs in the loss.

“It’s a bit disappointing because we have been demonstrating the ability to weather some bad moments and make sure they don’t turn into bad matches, but not today,” added Drakich. “The plan is to keep working hard every day and I’m confident we will get back on track for next weekend.”

Ottawa was led by Laura Carmanico’s nine-kill performance, Krueger Shwanke had six kills, 14 digs and an impressive nine serving aces in the win.

The Varsity Blues return to the court next Saturday, January 28 as they host the RMC Paladins at the Athletic Centre Sports Gym.  Game time is set for 3 p.m.

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