Both the Vancouver Island University Mariners volleyball teams were nearly unbeatable in the first half of the season.
But as they start the second half of the Pacific Western Athletic Association schedule, they can expect all the teams to be better.
The Mariners men (11-1) and women (11-1) travel to the mainland for matches Friday (Jan. 13) and Saturday against the Douglas Royals.
The men’s action will provide the weekend’s feature matches, as the Royals (11-3) are right there in the mix for a playoff bye. The Royals women (1-13) aren’t as strong, but do feature PacWest’s leader in kills, Victoria Hocking, who is averaging 3.33 kills per game.
The M’s counter with Leanna Gildersleeve, seventh in the conference with 2.82 kills per game.
GAME ON … Next home action for VIU’s volleyball teams is Jan. 20-21, when the Fraser Valley Cascades visit the VIU gym.