The VIU Mariners win back to back national titles on Saturday after a three-set sweep over the King’s University Eagles. They dominated the play from the first serve and become the first women’s team to win back to back titles since Red Deer College in 2014-2015. They are the first PACWEST school to accomplish the feat since the UBC Okanagan Heat won in 2009 and 2010.
Offensively the Mariners were led by Danielle Groenendijk and her 16 kills and 13 digs. Karoline Tormena pounded 14 kills and collected eight digs. Middle Taylor Wickson again was a major factor with eight kills and three blocks.
Fifth year setter Chantal Cumming was masterful all tournament and was named the Most Valuable Player of the championship. In the gold medal match she tacked on 36 assists, seven digs and a block. In all she collected 106 assists over the course of the tournament.
Head coach Shane Hyde ties a PACWEST record with his fifth CCAA title. He’s tied with Doug Abercroble who coached the Capilano Blues women’s soccer team to five national championship gold medals.
Following the match the CCAA All-Stars were announced and six PACWEST players were named along with Cumming as the MVP.
First Team All-Stars:
Danielle Groenendijk – Mariners
Andrea Cankovic – Mariners
Trisha He – Royals
Second Team All-Stars:
Taylor Wickson – Mariners
Karoline Tormena – Mariners
