16U Boys Challenge Cup
The 16U boys were really looking forward to this tournament to try out their new defensive system against familiar foes. Starting off the day against Mac 15U, the Preds never unveiled their “A” game and lost consecutive games 17-25 and 20-25. The next match in pool play featured a much anticipated match with the Preds 15U Ravage. Playing one of our strongest matches of the season, the older Preds won in two straight by scores of 25-19 and 25-20. Our final match of pool play was against our cross town rivals, the Waterloo Tigers. Unfortunately, the boys did not play up to their capabilities and fell 19-25 and 18-25. We finished in third place in our pool of four.
In the opening round of playoffs, we faced the Forest City Green 15U team and the boys played two solid games winning 25-20 and 25-13. In quarter final play, we had to face the Pakmen who were the tournaments #1 seed. Pakmen put on a clinic in the first game playing flawless volleyball to win easily 25-12. In the second game, the Preds showed they could compete with them closing the gap to 17-16 at one point before Pakmen pulled away to win 25-18 and eliminate the Preds from medal contention. In our final match for 5th or 7th, we had a chance to face Mac 15U again and this time the Preds brought out their “A” game and beat Mac decisively 25-16 and 25-16 to claim a share of 5th place.
Although there was no medal this time in 16U competition, there were many positive signs that the Preds are bringing their game to another level. Passing percentage improved as well as their ability to hit serving targets on a consistent basis. Blocking and hitting continue to be team strengths. A strong middle game contributed to many of our wins today. Best of all, the new defensive system enabled the team to dig up balls more consistently.
All players contributed to our success today. Josh Kirkham played well all day with strong setting and blocking. Harrison Smith and Levi Johns were stellar in the middle. Alen Brcanovic, Nick Frank, and Drew Bryant hit, served, and blocked very well. Logan Scott, Chris Balea, and Matt Chiasson made several excellent digs and saves. This total team effort has the 16U Preds on track towards our goal of peaking at provincials. Way to go guys!
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