Posted: Nov 15, 2025
Lauren Grey
Blues Crew Communications
For the first time since October 2013, the Capilano University Blues Men's Volleyball Team completed a weekend sweep on the Vancouver Island Mariners. They continued their dominant weekend on Saturday afternoon, following up Friday’s sweep of the Vancouver Island University Mariners with another strong performance, winning 25-18, 25-21, and 25-22. After a long stretch without a sweep, the Blues have now secured back-to-back victories where they didn't give up even one set, over a previously very dominant Mariners side, giving their early season a big boost as they continue to climb the rankings.
Their victory also completes the weekend program sweep for the first time in Blues history after the women's victory earlier in the day. This secures the Blues first weekend sweep of the Mariners volleyball program in team history for a perfect 4-0 weekend.
The Blues knew they would need a gritty, focused effort to carry their momentum into the afternoon matchup, especially as they have not been as dominant in the Saturday matchups this season. The Blues came out composed, confident and quickly asserted themselves in the first set. Xavier Masztak set the tone with a couple of big kills and blocks, sparking energetic celebrations from both him and his teammates. Libero Connor Collinson-Lea also made his presence felt, keeping the ball off the floor with some last-ditch effort dives that had the fans on their feet. The Blues controlled the set, closing it out 25–18.
The second set saw a closer battle, with both teams trading points and momentum. A few miscommunications and disputed calls from both sides added to the intensity. Luke Tiegen had a standout set with some powerful kills that helped keep the Blues ahead. He finished the game with 15 kills, 1 block and 1 ace. Reese Nowotny also contributed key points at critical moments, ensuring that the Mariners couldn't generate enough momentum. Even moments of improvisation, such as Quentin Middleton using his foot to keep a rally alive, highlighted just how thrilling and unpredictable this set was. After a tense back-and-forth, Capilano secured the second set 25–21.
The third set was a nailbiter from start to finish; neither team was able to build a sizable lead. The Blues remained composed under pressure and were very solid in big moments. Shub Wander continued to dominate, getting 12 kills on the night. The game also saw Quentin Middleton and Reese Nowotny both getting 6 kills and 1 block. The momentum eventually swung in the way of the Blues, and they closed out the set 25-22. There hasn't been a sweep in men's volleyball in a long time, especially one where they didn't give up a single set, winning both days 3-0. With both the men’s and women’s teams winning back-to-back games and sending the Mariners home empty-handed, Capilano has proven they are hitting their stride at just the right time.
The boys look to continue to climb the PACWEST standings, which now has them sitting in 4th. They will need to continue playing exciting volleyball and continue to show their cohesion every weekend going forward. If the Blues can keep this going, the remainder of the season is going to be a very exciting one for Blues volleyball fans. The Blues are back in action at home next week, Friday, November 21st, at 8 pm against the Columbia Bible College Bearcats. Come out and support the boys at home, and if you can't make it, tune in online.
