Lancers Push No. 2 Durham to the Brink in Hard‑Fought Battle

Lancers Push No. 2 Durham to the Brink in Hard‑Fought Battle
Box Score
February 5, 2026

The Loyalist Lancers women's volleyball team delivered one of their grittiest performances of the season on Wednesday night, going toe‑to‑toe with the second‑place Durham Lords, who entered the match at 13–2 and riding one of the strongest records in the OCAA East.

Durham ultimately came away with a 3–0 victory, but the scoreline doesn't come close to telling the story of the match—especially after a thrilling opening set that saw the Lancers push the Lords into extra points before falling 33–31 in a back‑and‑forth battle that had the entire Kente Building on its feet.

From the first serve, Loyalist played with unquestionable intensity, showcasing tenacious defence, fearless swings, and a collective edge that refused to give Durham any easy points. The Lancers' serve‑receive unit handled Durham's aggressive pressure with composure, while rallies stretched long as both sides exchanged powerful attacks and scrappy defensive plays.

The second and third sets remained tightly contested, with the Lancers continuing to apply pressure at the net and keeping rallies alive through disciplined floor defence. The Lancers offense found seams against one of the toughest blocking teams in the conference, and the team's energy never dipped—even as Durham relied on its experience and depth to close out the match.

Despite the loss, the performance was a major stride forward for the Lancers. Their intensity, execution, and resilience against a top‑ranked opponent showed exactly how far they've come and the kind of volleyball they're capable of playing. The Lancers will look to carry this momentum and confidence into their final regular season game on Saturday, February 7th on the road against the Centennial Colts.

Before the match, Loyalist proudly recognized eight graduating athletes who have left a lasting mark on the women's volleyball program. Each has contributed not only through their athletic skill, but through leadership, heart, and dedication to the Lancer culture.

Congratulations to the graduating athletes!

  • At 5'9, Fayth Bender (Tavistock, ON)  has been a steady offensive presence whose court leadership and relentless work ethic elevate everyone around her. In just her second year, she has become a model of consistency and commitment.
  • A dynamic 5'8 right side, Sydney Crawford's (Oro Station, ON) versatility and explosive attacking have made her a game‑changing option whenever she steps on the floor. Her growth and intensity have been invaluable this season.
  • Chichi Ekpelibe's (Carrying Place, ON) adaptability and energy have made her one of the most reliable utility players in the program. From attacking to digging to blocking, her all‑around skill has shone brightest in the biggest moments.
  • In only two years, Jasmine Lessard (Val Gagné, ON) has become the backbone of the Lancers' backcourt. Her calm presence, sharp reading skills, and defensive toughness have stabilized the team in countless high‑pressure situations.
  • Standing at 6'1, Chloe Pallister (Orillia, ON) has brought size, strength, and momentum‑shifting blocking to the Lancers. Her impact in the middle has fundamentally changed the team's presence at the net.
  • A fifth‑year veteran and true leader, Jamie Routledge (Pickering, ON) has shaped the identity of this program. Her court vision, decision‑making, and mentorship have left a legacy that will be felt long after she graduates.
  • At 6'1 and in their third year, Charles Cudmore (Ottawa, ON) has been a dominant force—entering the night as the team's leading scorer with an incredible 194 points on the season. Charles' firepower, intensity, and consistency have made them one of the Lancers' most impactful athletes.
  • Our final graduate of the evening, fouth year athlete Taylor Baker (Napanee, ON) has exemplified what it means to grow, adapt, and lead. Beginning her career as a powerful left‑side attacker before transitioning into a standout libero, Taylor has become one of the most complete players in the program. Her poise, defensive command, and quiet leadership make her irreplaceable.

Congratulations to all graduating athletes and don't forget -  Once a Lancer, Always A Lancer.