For the second year running, the Providence Pilots women’s volleyball team finished second at the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) Division II National Championship in Florida, coming up short in their November 19 final against Wisconsin’s Maranatha Baptist Title. This was Maranatha’s second consecutive title.
Leading up to the final match, the Pilots dropped only two sets in round robin play, winning games against Manhattan Christian College of Kansas, Texas-based Arlington Baptist College, and Kentucky Christian College.
“This was nothing short of an incredible week,” says Kyle Guenther, head coach, of the tournament. “We played well on the first day in the Manhattan and Arlington matches. Against Kentucky we came out stronger in most categories and topped a very good team to win our pool.”
The Pilots advanced to the final after sweeping fourth-ranked Randall in three straight sets.
It was the closest thing I’ve seen to flawless volleyball from our team,” says Guenther, who was recognized by the NCCAA as the North Region Coach of the Year in early November. “It was so much fun to watch the women enjoy the moment and play so well on the big stage.”
Three Pilots players—Sara Barker, Sam Bridle, and Shayna Staerk—were named to the All-Tournament Team. Bridle and Danella Alvaro also earned the First-Team All-American distinction. Third-year right-side LaRae Driedger from Steinbach was honoured as a Scholar Athlete.
Following the MCCAA tournament, the Pilots return home to defend their Manitoba Colleges Athletic Conference title.
