The VIU Mariners women's volleyball team beat Douglas College in four sets to capture their fourth straight CCAA national championship and fifth in six seasons. (VIU Mariners)

By Dan Marshall

DYNASTY

Mariners win fourth straight CCAA women’s national volleyball title

Mar 28, 2022 | 9:22 AM

CHARLOTTETOWN — The VIU Mariners have tied a CCAA record for most consecutive women’s volleyball championships.

Their fourth win in a row came through a 3-1 win over Douglas College in the gold medal game on Sunday, March 27. It was a measure of redemption after falling to Douglas College in the PACWEST provincial final earlier in February.

Coach Shane Hyde said winning a fourth straight national tournament was amazing.

“It means so much. It’s incredible and this team has been through so much. We had everything thrown at us this year and here we are again as national champions.”

Hyde added the VIU women’s program is about much more than just building a good volleyball team.

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“Words don’t explain what we go through. The pressure, the road trips, the laughing, the crying. It is a family and we see these girls go on to be successful adults.”

The win puts VIU in elite company with FX Garneau (2000-2003) and Sherbrooke (1985-1988) the only other schools to accomplish the feat.

Jane Lytvynenko was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player after not being able to suit up for the PACWEST provincials in February.

“I’m very honoured. Getting the MVP means I gave everything and I was able to prove myself. I gave 100 per cent and so did my teammates.”

Four-time national champion Danielle Groenendijk said losing in the provincials was probably a good thing.

“We didn’t have everyone there and we knew it wasn’t a true representation of ourselves. If anything it motivated us to come out harder at nationals.”

The Mariners earned their way to the final through wins against d’Edouard-Montpetit 3-1, Red Deer 3-0 and Douglas College to capture the title.

Groenendijk said getting to end her career as a national champion is incredible.

“I’ve played with wonderful teammates all the way through I’m and also very thankful for all my coaches as well.”

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