The UBC Okanagan Heat finished 1-4 at the 2011 Cougar Men’s Volleyball Invitational at the University of Regina Thanksgiving Weekend.
The Heat opened the tournament losing to the University of Saskatchewan Huskies in straight sets (25-20, 25-17, 25-21). Then, with just a two-hour break in between matches, the Heat lost in five tough sets to the Mt. Royal Cougars of Calgary.
UBC then stopped the University of Manitoba Bisons 3-2 (28-26, 23-25, 25-22, 24-26, 16-14)before the defending CIS silver medalist Brandon Bobcats outlasted the Heat in four sets (25-19, 25-27, 25-11, 25-22).
On Sunday morning, the Cougars sweept the Heat in straight sets (25-15, 25-19, 25-10).
The weekend was about survival for the Heat as they played five matches in less than 48 hours versus top-level competition. UBC was without Vernon products Preston Tucker (fifth year, setter) and Greg Niemantsverdriet (third year, outside hitter). Both starters were unable to go as they continue to rehab from injury.
“Greg’s shoulder woes continue to plague him and captain Preston Tucker has only been performing volleyball activities for a couple of weeks,” said Heat head coach Greg Poitras.
