The University of British Columbia Athletics

Vancouver, BC - The men's volleyball team is bursting with momentum after defeating the Mount Royal Cougars in straight sets over two consecutive days last weekend. This weekend, the No. 4-ranked Thunderbirds will look to extend their four-game winning streak as they host the No.8-ranked University of Saskatchewan Huskies at home at War Memorial Gymnasium.
 
Thus far this season, Ben Chow, Quentin Schmidt, and Alex Russell, whose collective kills account for 57 per cent of the team's, have led the Thunderbirds' offence. At setter and libero, Milan Nikic and Ian Perry also provide crucial opportunities for the team and consistently keep opponents guessing. UBC's front line has also seen substantial contributions from Gabriel Aaron, Mac McNicol, and Chris Howe.
 
The Huskies find themselves on a five-game winning streak, most recently overcoming the University of Calgary Dinos. So far this season, left-side hitters Bryan Fraser, Jordan Nowakowski, and Paul Thomson have championed the team's offense, combining for over 68% of the team's kills.
 
Head Coach Richard Schick is looking forward to the challenges this weekend poses: "We're playing a team that is scrapping it out for a playoff spot. They have been playing really well, as of late, in the sense that they've had five straight wins and I think we are continuing to find our groove. We're getting some injured guys back, which has been good. Our goals are for us to play well. It sounds simple, but we are working on individual rotations so we can become a lot more efficient in them and understand what our options are. We are just trying to include everyone and balance, which is something that, for our team, is important for us down the road. This weekend, we want as many people to come out as possible, as we always do, and show their support."
 
Coach Schick noted that so far this season, "the guys have done a really good job in keeping their focus in what we're trying to do, which is win volleyball games and put us in the best position entering the playoffs. Our goal is to be there in the end."
 
In regard to the leadership demonstrated by older players, Schick noted that the incoming recruits have greatly benefitted from the guidance of the older, experienced players. "We brought in a few young guys this year and they've each seen some spot duty in games. We've gone a long way in breeding them for the future so they understand the focus and hard work that our guys bring day in and day out. For guys like Quentin and Ian, who are our older guys in their fourth year, they are showing what our team leadership is and they motivate us to be better."
 
This weekend, the Thunderbirds will also honor fifth-years Austin Hinchey and Parker Jobin for their commitment and dedication to UBC men's volleyball program.
 
Come out to War Memorial Gymnasium and support the 'Birds as they take on the Huskies. Friday night's game begins at 8:00 pm while Saturday's game will commence at 7:00 pm.