LIONS BATTLE TO FINAL SERVE IN HARD-FOUGHT FOUR-SET BATTLE AGAINST GRYPHONS

Men’s Volleyball | 11/1/2026 12:30:00 AM

The York University Lions men’s volleyball team left everything on the court Saturday night at the Guelph Gryphons Athletic Centre, ultimately dropping a hard-fought four-set decision to the host Guelph Gryphons.

The opening set established the tone for the evening, featuring fierce net battles and extended rallies. York delivered a resilient late-set push behind the distribution of Aidan Labossiere and swings from Andrew Voorn and Dennis Cota, climbing their way to 24 points. However, Guelph’s efficient side-out execution allowed the hosts to edge past the Lions 26–24.

Looking to swing the momentum, York turned to setter Mason Doering to drive the offence in the second frame. Doering efficiently unlocked the middle and pins, connecting with Bodhi Jones and Chris Hoffman to keep the score deadlocked deep into the set. Despite a stellar service run from Jones — including a clutch ace against the Guelph defence — Guelph capitalized on late-rotation miscues to secure a narrow 25–23 win to go up 2-0.

Facing a two-set deficit, the Lions displayed immense character in the third set. Trailing under pressure, York’s defence stepped up with crucial blocks from Hoffman, Voorn, and Cota, neutralizing Guelph’s offensive weapons at the net. The set culminated in a dramatic extra-points sequence where Jones delivered a service ace on set point, lifting the Lions to a 26–24 victory and forcing a fourth frame.

York went blow-for-blow with Guelph early in the fourth. Cota ignited the offence with a service ace and clean finishes at the net, while rookie Gavin Goodwin provided key energy off the bench. Nevertheless, Guelph’s front row mounted a late defensive stand, sealing the set 25–20 and closing out the match.

LOOKING AHEAD:

York will now enjoy the first of its two bye weeks next week as they get ready to host the RMC Paladins on home opening weekend, beginning Nov. 13 at Tait McKenzie Centre. That game is slated to begin at 7:30 p.m., and you can get your tickets at yorkulions.ca/tickets or watch the game live and on-demand, free of charge on OUA TV.