It was an all-Ottawa clash on Wednesday night at the Jack Doyle Athletics & Recreation Centre as the Algonquin Wolves men's volleyball team faced off against the La Cité Coyotes, looking to start their season 2–0.
Historically, the Wolves have had the upper hand in this rivalry as Algonquin hadn't lost to La Cité since 2018. But the opening set proved to be a battle, with both teams trading points en route to a 12–12 tie. That's when Wolves Den Athlete of the Week, Connor Finnie, took over. The fourth-year veteran scored three straight points starting with a powerful kill from the right side, then an ace, and then a back-row attack to put the Wolves ahead 16–12. The Coyotes fought back and tied the set at 22–22 after a late service run, but once again, Finnie delivered in the clutch, scoring first from the left side, then again from the right to close out the set 25–23 for Algonquin.
La Cité responded in the second set, jumping out to an early 11–8 lead. An ace from Gavin Hassell and a block from Ethan Fisher helped the Wolves even the score at 12. First-year outside Kyle Butler entered the match and immediately made an impact, scoring one of his nine kills to give Algonquin a brief 15–14 lead. However, the Coyotes' strong defense kept them in control down the stretch. Leading 21–19, La Cité capitalized on their momentum and took the second set 25–22, evening the match at one set apiece.
The Wolves quickly regrouped. A solo block from Butler early set the tone for what was to come. Algonquin built an 11–6 lead and never looked back. Nick Gauthier-Barber and Finnie lead the offense, combining for several key kills that halted any Coyotes rallies. The Wolves took the set 25–16 and regained control of the match.
The fourth set followed a similar pattern. Algonquin stormed ahead early, jumping out to a 12–5 lead with efficient attacking and strong serving. La Cité managed to close the gap to four points late in the set, but Butler once again came through with a timely kill from the left side to restore momentum. He then sealed the win with a thunderous pipe attack in transition, securing a 25–18 set victory, and a 3–1 match win for the Wolves.
Several Wolves turned in standout performances. Gauthier-Barber led the way with 14 kills, an ace, and two blocks. Finnie added 10 kills and an ace, while Butler delivered his best match as a Wolf, finishing with nine kills and a block.
Next up, the Wolves return to the ARC on Friday, November 8, to face the Loyalist Lancers on Mavs Appreciation Night. A big crowd is expected, so fans are encouraged to secure their tickets early and be part of the action.
