Penticton natives Spencer Kingzett and Logan Mend helped the York University Lions men’s volleyball team win the Excalibur Classic championship Jan. 10 with a straight-sets victory over the Ryerson Rams.
The Lions defeated the Rams 25-17, 26-24, 25-19 to take home the trophy. It marks the first time the team has won its home tourney since 1989. The victory over the Rams avenged a loss to their crosstown rivals from Day 1 of the tournament on Jan.8, when Ryerson emerged victorious in straight sets. The Lions advanced to the final with a 3-1 victory over the Nipissing Lakers in the semifinals on Saturday, while Ryerson took down the Western Mustangs in straight sets in the other semi.
The Mustangs won the bronze medal with a thrilling five-set victory over the Lakers in the earlier match on Sunday. Despite going down by two sets and losing both setters during the contest, the Mustangs rallied late and pulled off the comeback.
All four teams will return to OUA action next weekend as the second half of the season kicks off. The Lions will once again face the Rams in their next contest, scheduled for Jan. 16 at the Tait McKenzie Centre.
Kingzett is a graduate of Princess Margaret Secondary, while Mend graduated from Pen High. Mend’s performance in the Excalibur Classic earned him a spot on tournament all-stars.
