Celebrate the Middlemen

Graduating Mariner Middle Blockers Emerson Cooke and Daniel Mascarenhas highlight VIU's final two games of the season versus CBC

Fifth-year Daniel Mascarenhas (left) and fourth-year Emerson Cooke will graduate at the end of this year's volleyball season.
Fifth-year Daniel Mascarenhas (left) and fourth-year Emerson Cooke will graduate at the end of this year's volleyball season and leave some giant holes to fill in the middle of the rotation.
February 16, 2024

NANAIMO, B.C. - The Mariners close out the regular season with two home games against the Columbia College Bearcats (Abbotsford, B.C.). This weekend will also mark the final home games for graduating middle blockers Daniel Mascarenhas and Emerson Cooke.

VIU Mariners (12-6) vs CBC Bearcats (4-14) - VIU Gym

  • Friday, February 16 at 8 p.m. and Saturday, Febrary 17 at 3 p.m.
  • Games are streamed live on the VIU Mariners Athletics YouTube page
  • Previous games: VIU defeated CBC 3-0 (25-18, 25-21, 25-21) and 3-1 (25-22, 25-22, 18-25, 25-13) back in November

RYAN THIBAULT AWARD

Prior to Saturday's game, the Ryan Thibault Award will be presented to a men's volleyball student-athlete based on academic achievement and who embodies leadership, selflessness, teamwork, and outstanding athletic ability.

AT STAKE

Both teams are locked into their respective playoff fates. Regardless of this weekend's results, the Bearcats will miss the postseason while the Mariners will face the Camosun Chargers in one PACWEST semifinal matchup.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

  • VIU: Emotions will be high for Mascarenhas and Cooke and they will look to have strong games against a Bearcats squad that only features one student-athlete over 6'3".
  • CBC: Jonny Letkemann sits fourth in the PACWEST in kills (2.78 per set) and third in aces (0.48 per set). 

ALUMNI WEEKEND

Alumni are invited you to back to campus for a day of volleyball and socializing on Saturday, February 17, courtesy the VIU Mariners and VIU Alumni Relations. Receive free admission to Saturday's games, complimentary snacks and beverages, and more! For more information and to register for free, visit the Alumni Celebration Eventbrite page.