HAMILTON, Ont. - Today's home-opener for the women's volleyball season ended in a dominant Marauders win. Our stars shone through, as expected, but our non-starters also played a big part to help shut down the Toronto Varsity Blues in four sets. This impressive first showing should give the women confidence as they start their busy season.

The home crowd brought on the energy in the first set, making their presence known. McMaster started off with a series of powerful blocks, including one play with 3 blocks in a row, to deny the Blues early on. Middle Ellie Hatashita was especially intimidating at the net. The set ended with a sizable McMaster lead, 25-15. 

McMaster switched around their lineup for the second set but continued to be lethal. The Toronto defense played resiliently and their libero was everywhere, but their offense was lacking, making some unforced errors. They still put up a fight and took the lead at times, though McMaster was able to stick it out to win the set 25-23. 

The third set saw the Marauders defense slipping up. UofT also started to gain more chemistry and took an early six-point lead. Their impressive hustle helped them take the fourth set 25-19. 

A quick burst of energy to start the fourth set helped the Marauders gain five straight points, putting up a strong response to the Blues. Star of the team, outside hitter Sullie Sundara, had a series of aces that intimidated the Toronto defense. McMaster played with an infectious confidence. Very fittingly, Sullie Sundara ended the game with a powerful back row kill to win the set 25-15. 

The large lead in the final set was a testament to the Marauders hustle and perseverance. Despite sitting out for the second set, Sullie Sundara led the game in kills (11), aces (5), and digs (12). Ellie Hatashita was also extremely impactful, with 8 kills, 3 aces, and 2 blocks of her own. Ending on such a high note should help the team to carry on confidently through the rest of the season. Catch them as they take on the Waterloo Warriors next Friday for their second home game.