The UBC Thunderbirds (5-3) return to action to host the defending Canada West champion Trinity Western Spartans (5-1) at War Memorial Gym on Friday, January 28^th at 6:00 p.m. (PT) and Saturday, January 29^th at 5:00 p.m. (PT).
 
UBC is coming off a bye week away from conference action but swept the Thompson Rivers University WolfPack on home court with an adjusted lineup two weeks ago. Trinity Solecki had an impressive series with 15 kills, 14 digs and five aces over seven sets, while second-year setter Gisella Goodger put up 54 assists and six aces as a starter – smashing her career highs as a T-Bird.


 
"I thought the weekend showcased our depth as we saw a number of players step up and make significant contributions," said UBC head coach Doug Reimer after the 'Birds earned back-to-back wins over TRU. "One aspect that was great to see was the composure and ability to finish off sets and rebound when TRU was bringing strong play."
 
The conference-leading Spartans, meanwhile, have had nearly two months off Canada West action due to postponements following the winter break. In their last matches on December 2^nd and 3^rd, TWU swept the University of the Fraser Valley Cascades (3-5) 3-0 and 3-0 at home.  UBC and the Spartans split a series in Langley earlier this season – with the 'Birds capturing a 3-1 victory in game one before falling in a tightly contested five-setter in game two.


 
"They have had a long break, so they may have made a number of changes since we played them in November," said Reimer. "We need to focus and execute with consistency. They have a number of experienced and skilled players in all positions and so we will have to play with consistency and at a high level against one of the top teams in the country."
 
Tickets are available online, while all the action can also be streamed live on Canada West TV.