January 31, 2026 

WELLAND, ONT: The Niagara College men's volleyball team (7-7) welcomed the Sheridan Bruins (2-12) to the Simplii Financial Athletic Centre at the Welland Campus Saturday afternoon.  The Knights were able to snap their losing streak in a big way as they swept the Bruins 3-0 (set scores were 25-17, 33-31 and 25-23). 

Niagara came into this weekend matchup against Sheridan hoping to get back into the win column as they make their final push towards the playoffs.  Being able to take an early lead, the Knights were able to control the momentum and put the pressure on the Bruins.  The Bruins tried to climb back into the set, but Niagara was able to minimize the damage and eventually take home the 8-point first set victory.  In the second set, the Bruins got the early head start but both teams were able to make the necessary adjustments throughout the set, as neither team wanted to give this one up.  Point by point and dig after dig – both teams pushed each other to the brink, with the Knights able to squeeze out the 2nd set win and take a commanding 2-0 lead.  Heading into the 3rd set, Niagara was determined to stay in the driver's seat as they were able to build off an early lead.  With the Bruins keeping it close, the Knights were able to hold onto the lead until Sheridan turned it on late and found themselves with a 23-22 lead.  Niagara was immediately able to put an end to Sheridan's run, as they scored the next 3 points and swept the Bruins to send the fans home happy.  The Knights had 4 players scoring in double figures for this match – Jack Drummond and Sam Guzak with 18 points each, followed by Riley Orr with 13 and RJ Martin with 11.  However, the star of the game was Taiten Stifter, as he masterfully controlled the game and tempo, contributing 41 assists and 6 digs on the afternoon. 

"We're obviously happy with the result on this one – it's nice to get back into the win column," said Steve Stone, head coach of the Niagara Knights, when asked to comment on the game.  Stone continued to say "our serve-receive was dialled in allowing us to run an efficient offence and everyone was clicking.  The process was good but still would like to see better defensive engagement – hoping to build off this momentum with playoffs coming up soon." 

The Knights will have a short few days to rest as they head into the final week of the regular season.  Making the trip across the QEW, Niagara will travel to the "Steel City" to take on the Mohawk Mountaineers (8-5) as both teams look to make a final push in the standings as the season dwindles down.  If you aren't able to catch the action in person, be sure to tune into OCAA Live so you don't miss anything. 

For more information on the Knights' teams, please visit us at www.goknights.ca.