The York University Lions men’s volleyball team won the Excalibur Classic championship on Sunday afternoon with a straight-sets victory over the Ryerson Rams in the tournament final.
The Lions defeated the Rams 25-17, 26-24 and 25-19 to take home the trophy. It marks the first time the team has won its home tournament since 1989.
Second-year middle Arthur Szwarc (Toronto) was impressive against the Rams and was named the tournament MVP. He put up 19 kills, five blocks and three service aces for a total of 27 in just three sets, a sparkling 9.0 points-per-set average.
The victory over the Rams avenged a loss to their crosstown rivals from day one of the tournament on Friday, when Ryerson emerged victorious in straight sets. The Lions advanced to the final with a 3-1 victory over the Nipissing Lakers in the semifinals on Saturday, while Ryerson took down the Western Mustangs in straight sets in the other semi.
The Mustangs won the bronze medal with a thrilling five-set victory over the Nipissing Lakers in the earlier match on Sunday. Despite going down by two sets and losing both setters during the contest, the Mustangs rallied late and pulled off the comeback.
All four teams will return to OUA action next weekend as the second half of the season kicks off. The Lions will once again face the Ryerson Rams in their next contest, scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 16, at 4pm at the Tait McKenzie Centre.
Tournament MVP: Arthur Szwarc, York
Tournament All-stars: Adam Anagnostopoulos, Ryerson; Doug Austrom, Western; Lucas Coleman, Ryerson; Logan Mend, York; Nicolas Pirnat, York; Warren Taylor, Nipissing.