Written by Thomas Scott
The Dalhousie University Tigers men’s volleyball team come into this season feeling optimistic, looking to build off a playoff berth last season.
After beginning the season last weekend playing two games against the Sherbrooke Vert et Or, the Tigers start the season with an 0-2 record.
“After seeing what the competition in the league will be like, we’re a little bit more prepared going into the rest of the season and I think that will help us improve certain deficiencies that you can only identify through competition and not in practice,” says third-year kinesiology major Sartaj Sidhu.
Bussing 14 hours to Sherbrooke, Justin Cross, part of the team’s leadership group with Sidhu, says the team was able to bond during this time by playing cards and video games.
“We really try and use that time on the road to bond because volleyball is the ultimate team sport. If you're close with your teammates and trust them on the court, it really helps,” says Cross.
With several players in their third year of eligibility, the team now has more experience in the RSEQ. Head coach Dan Ota says he is expecting consistency playing at a high level. The Tigers next chance to get the first win of the season comes against the University of New Brunswick Reds on Friday at 8pm at Dalplex. The Tigers went undefeated against the Reds last season.
Ota believes this is a team that will grow throughout the season, stressing the remainder of the season after Christmas will be the most impactful. The main goal will be to make the playoffs again and to build from last year’s successes.
“We're going to have to scrap for every win,” says Ota.
Cross says the team has embraced un underdog mentality, motivating the team in practices and games. The team makes the most of every practice, raising the bar each time they touch the court.
“We know teams are sleeping on us,” says Cross, who is in his third year of management.
It is the deepest roster Cross has been part of since joining the Tigers. With the depth of the squad, Sidhu says the team can play around with different lineups.
Be sure to follow your Tigers over the weekend against the Reds.