This past weekend featured the Number 2 ranked CCAA team verses last week’s number 2 ranked CCAA team. The level of play was extremely fast paced and exciting for the Mariner fans. Leanna Gildersleeve was a dominant player all weekend. In Fridays match, Gildersleeve recorded 19 kills, 1 block and 1 ace for a total of 21 offensive points. She also recorded 26 digs to lead all players in defensive points. The match saw the VIU Mariners facing match point several times but with some smart, experienced play from Gildersleeve, the team was able to win Fridays match in 5 sets.
In Saturday’s rematch, the Mariners came back very strong and determined, knocking off the skilled Blues team in 3 straight sets. Gildersleeve again showed leadership both offensively as well as defensively. She tallied 9 kills, 2 blocks, 2 aces for a total of 13 offensive points as well as 10 digs. “Leanna is becoming the player she was a few years back when she lead her MacEwan team to a CCAA silver medal and was recognized as the player of the Match at the CCAA National Finals” stated coach Hyde.