UNB Saint John Athletics
Home of the Seawolves

On Wednesday night, the Seawolves men's volleyball team faced off against the St. Thomas Tommies who are currently ranked 10th in the nation. The Seawolves showed control throughout the majority of the game, handing the Tommies a 3-1 loss. The Seawolves battled hard in the first set to take it 27-25; however, the Tommies fought back to take the second 25-23. From there on out it was the Seawolves ball game, taking the final two sets 25-19 and 25-23.

The rivalry between the Seawolves and the Tommies dates back many years now. The Tommies club has been strong for quite some time, but the Seawolves proved on Wednesday night that this year may be a little different. The Seawolves have developed their program to an elite caliber and are preparing to contend for the 2015-2016 ACAA Championship banner.

Leading the way for the Seawolves were Blair Doull (3rd year middle) with 9 kills and 1 service ace, Chad White (4th year left side) with 10 kills, 1 service ace and 10 digs, and Patrick Kendall (2nd year setter) with 41 assist, 3 service aces, 8 digs, and 2 blocks, and 2nd year libero Jacob McLean passing a 2.50 with 17 digs. Although these four experienced players were key to the success of the win over the Tommies, the biggest surprise to most in the crowd may have been the stellar performance by rookie Samuel Irvine. Sam recorded 10 kills, 1 service ace and 15 digs. It is rare to see a rookie perform at such an elite level in the ACAA.

Sam, who was set on attending Memorial University, changed his mind last second to join to Seawolves squad for the 2015-2016 season to continue playing volleyball and gain experience from head coach, Kyle Blanchard. He is leaving no doubt that staying at UNB Saint John was the right choice. Sam is showing volleyball knowledge beyond most senior players in the league and it is without a doubt if he continues to compete at such a high level, he will be an integral piece to the Seawolves success this season!