Rattlers go out on a high, Trojans win ACAC title

It may not have been the end they wanted, but the Medicine Hat Rattlers were all smiles on Saturday at the Snake Pit.

After dropping their opening match at the Alberta Colleges Athletics Conference men’s volleyball championship to the Keyano Huskies, the Rattlers were eliminated from medal contention and a chance at a repeat trip to nationals. But they still managed to dig in their heels and close out the weekend with a straight sets victory over the Concordia Thunder (25-21, 25-14, 25-20) to close the book on their season and lock up fifth place overall.

“We were so disappointed after losing that first match, so it's always good finishing off the season with a couple of wins,” said Rattlers outside hitter Alfred Dalevik. “Even though it's not what we wanted, we can still be happy with this.”

Dalevik led the Rattlers with nine kills in the victory while setter Chad Sieben had 28 assists and libero Kreggan Scharnatta dug out eight.

Approaching match point, the Rattlers used a timeout to arrange a proper sendoff for fifth-year middle Brodie Dolter — who received a standing ovation when he was subbed off the court to end his impressive ACAC career.

“That guy has given so many years to this program,” said Dalevik. “He's been a guy you can always trust both on the floor and off the floor. He's just a huge asset, I wish we could have more guys like him. He's really committed.”

Rattlers head coach Mark Porter added Dolter is the only member of the squad who will not be returning next season, leaving the team with a very bright future.

“The big thing this year, when you're young, is having the character and the mental toughness. I thought we showed that a little bit throughout this weekend, actually throughout the last three weeks of the season to now,” said Porter. “I think it's very promising for us.”

The SAIT Trojans went on to win the ACAC title and punch their ticket to nationals with a three victory over the Huskies (25-20, 26-24, 27-25) Saturday night.

ACAC men’s volleyball player of the year Trent Mounter led the Trojans with 14 kills in the victory while Nathan Goss had eight digs and 30 assists.

Justin Delorme and Radoslaw Brzozowski both had 13 kills for Keyano, but it wasn’t enough to steal a set.

The Briercrest Clippers took bronze with a four-set win over the Lethbridge Kodiaks (22-25, 25-18, 25-21, 25-23).