Winnipeg rallies back to beat Queen’s in five-set thriller

The No. 1 Winnipeg Wesmen reminded the nation why they were named tournament favourites heading into the 2025 U SPORTS Men's Volleyball Championship Presented by Sunrise Credit Union on Saturday. 

Down two sets to none against No. 4 Queen's after being upset in a sweep in their quarterfinal Friday by No. 8 host Brandon, the Wesmen came all the way back to defeat the Gaels 3-2 (24-26, 23-25, 25-14, 27-25, 21-19) in their consolation match at the Healthy Living Centre Gymnasium. 

First Team All-Canadian Isiah Olfert had 22 kills, 13 digs and six aces, while Jaxon Rose tallied 18 scores and 11 digs in the win and Ben Traa contributed 45 assists in a match that required extra points in three of the five sets, including the deciding frame. 

Reed Venning led the offence for the Gaels with 18 kills, 10 digs, and a .486 efficiency and Second Team All-Canadian Zig Licis had 17 kills and nine digs. Chris Zimmerman chipped in 52 assists. 

Queen's recorded a .227 hitting percentage in the match despite the loss, compared to .194 for Winnpeg. 

With the win, Winnipeg advances to play No. 6 Windsor on Sunday in the consolation final at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT. Queen's ends their season with an overall record of 18-7 in regular season, conference playoff and U SPORTS Championship action.

Mikasa Players of the Game

Winnipeg: Isaiah Olfert

Queen's: Zig Licis