‘Birds face first big test against WolfPack

The first big test of the year is here for the U SPORTS No.2-ranked UBC Thunderbirds (4-0), who will take on an opponent they’ve met in the playoffs in each of the last three season in No.7-ranked Thompson Rivers University (4-0). The recent rivals will square off in back-to-back games at War Memorial Gym this weekend, scheduled for 7:15 p.m. (PCT) on Friday and 5:45 p.m. (PCT) on Saturday, as the second half of doubleheaders between the schools’ men’s teams.

It’s been a strong start to the season for the reigning Canada West bronze medallist ‘Birds, beginning the campaign with a home sweep of the Calgary Dinos (3-1, 3-0) before flying to Saskatoon to sweep away the Saskatchewan Huskies (3-1, 3-0) as well.

“I’m really happy with our 4-0 start,” said UBC head coach Doug Reimer. “Going on the road to Saskatchewan and getting two wins was excellent, they’re a solid team.”

UBC is top-three in the conference in kills, assists and points per set so far, and they’re finding success with a balanced approach. No individual T-Birds are among the league leaders in those categories, speaking to the collective effort that’s led to the early success, with UBC’s depth already shining through.

“I’m pleased with our Saturday play, but we can still clean things up, especially around blocking,” noted Reimer. “I think our team needs to get to the point where we can trust that we can be good, and keep believing in ourselves, even under some adversity.”

A rivalry with Thompson Rivers has been building, as the Thunderbirds have gotten the better of the WolfPack in each of their three consecutive playoff matchups, albeit by smaller and smaller margins. The ‘Pack qualified for the U SPORTS Championships last year, after losing to the T-Birds in the Canada West bronze medal match. They lost both games at nationals, though in five sets each. This season, TRU has swept Mount Royal and Regina, while deploying a roster loaded with experience.

“Thompson Rivers was practically tied for first in the Canada West pre-season poll, and rightly so,” praised Reimer. “They were at the national championships last year, have two very experienced international players, and we’ve seen their domestic players really improve. That includes a libero who spent the whole summer with the national team program. We have a lot of respect for what they will bring.”

Ticket for this weekend’s games are available here, with special group rates available through this link. Stream all of the action, live or on demand, on Canada West TV.