Posted: Feb 23, 2025
Lauren Grey
Blues Crew, Communications
Capilano Blues Women’s Volleyball Completes Thrilling Comeback, Wins 3-2 Against Columbia Bible College
The Capilano University Blues Women's Volleyball team battled through a slow start but fought their way back to secure a 3-2 win (20-25, 21-25, 25-23, 25-17, 15-12) in their final game of the year against the Columbia Bible College Bearcats.
Yesterday was a tough day for the Blues, losing in the semi-finals to the lower-ranked Camosun Chargers in straight sets. It was a hard pill to swallow as they had defeated them a month ago at home and had confidence they could do it again. Today, they had the chance to play for a bronze medal against the Columbia Bible College Bearcats, and after a very slow start from the team, losing to the first two sets, it seemed that this game would be a repeat of the last. Thankfully, the Blues pulled out all the stops and started to play their game again. They ended up taking three sets straight to win the bronze against the Bearcats.
The victory capped off a rollercoaster weekend that showed the team’s resilience and energy; it marked a very successful end to their season, finishing on a win and with a medal.
In the first set, despite some early struggles, Capilano couldn't find their rhythm in time, with CBC taking the first set 25-20. The lack of blocking and unforced errors continued to plague the Blues, and they found themselves trailing 2-0 after losing the second set 25-21.
However, Capilano found new life in the third set. Some big plays from standouts Natalie Rourke, Abby Betker, and Nnya Mbaoma ignited the Blues’ offence, helping them claw their way back to a 25-23 win, and keeping their hopes alive.
The momentum carried into the fourth set, with Capilano looking like a completely different team. Their blocking improved, and their communication on the court started clicking, leading to a dominant 25-17 victory, tying the match at 2-2.
As the fifth set began, the Blues kept their focus, and with a solid combination of tough serves and excellent blocking, they finished strong. The Blues took the deciding set 15-12, completing the comeback and securing the 3-2 win.
Nnya Mbaoma was named Player of the Game for her consistent performance throughout the match, contributing to both offense and defense with key digs and critical kills.
The Blues finish the season on a high as they head into the offseason. Next season, they will look to return as one of the best in the PACWEST, as they'll be returning nearly their entire starting roster.