(Read time: 2 min)

Chris Raeside
Sport Information Event Management, Media & Sport Development Officer

NORTH VANCOUVER, B.C. — The Capilano University Blues closed out their three-week homestand in commanding fashion on Saturday night, sweeping the visiting Columbia Bible College Bearcats 3–0 (25–16, 25–19, 25–20). The victory keeps Capilano perfect on the season at 8–0 overall and 6–0 at home, reinforcing their status as one of the PACWEST’s early powerhouses.

Capilano wasted no time asserting control in the opening frame, racing out to a double-digit lead while holding CBC under 10 points until late in the set. The Blues’ offence was clicking immediately, racking up 14 kills and applying constant pressure from the service line. The early cushion gave Capilano the flexibility to work in members of their bench, offering valuable PACWEST experience without compromising momentum. Fifth-year outside hitter Nnya Mbaoma led the early charge with a flurry of kills and finished the night with 13 kills, 3 blocks, and an ace.

The second set brought a push from the Bearcats, who opened with a brief hot streak to force the Blues onto their heels. But as they have shown repeatedly this season, Capilano’s composure never wavered. The Blues quickly steadied their side of the court, tightened their passing, and surged ahead behind the reliable scoring of Abby Betker, who matched Mbaoma’s output with 13 kills and 2 aces. Capilano closed the set strong, 25–19, regaining full control of the match.

CBC again came out swinging in the third, jumping to a 5–2 and later a 17–13 advantage. Capilano responded by reintroducing their veteran starters, and the shift in rhythm was immediate. The Blues climbed back to take a 21–19 lead, showcasing their ability to respond under pressure and finish with authority. Fifth-year outside Sibby Bos contributed timely offence and steady serving, ending the match with 4 kills, 2 aces, and a block as Capilano sealed the sweep 25–20.

Saturday’s performance highlighted the Blues’ ideal balance of depth and experience: building early leads that allow emerging players to see the floor, while still being able to lean on seasoned veterans to close out tight stretches. With another dominant home weekend behind them, the Blues now shift their attention to their final test of the fall semester—a road trip to Cranbrook, where they’ll take on the College of the Rockies Avalanche next weekend.