NORTH BAY, Ont. - Yesterday marked the first game of 2024 for the women's volleyball team. They started the year off just how they had wanted, crushing the Nipissing Lakers 3-0. 

Although the Marauders ended the game with a dominant performance, the first set was up for grabs by either team. Nipissing had a late comeback and almost caught up, but McMaster held on to win the set 25-20. Having shaken off the rust from their lengthy winter break, the Marauders were all warmed up for the second set and stepped up their game, closing out the set 25-15. The final set ended in a similar fashion 25-17 for McMaster. 

Despite the unconventional lineup, which was missing key players such as outside hitter Sullie Sundara and libero Hayley Brookes, there were multiple strong performances from the Marauders. Outside hitter Emma McKinnon recorded a season-high 13 points from 11 kills. Outside hitter Maddy Lutes put up an impressive 9 kills, 2 aces, and 9 digs. 

With this win, the team advances to an outstanding record of 8-1. They are now halfway through the season and seek to continue their incredible performance as they grow closer to the playoffs. Catch them at 4 pm today in their rematch against the Nipissing Lakers.