Men’s Club Volleyball team claims the national title

Entering the tournament ranked #3 nationally, the Falcons compete to achieve the #1 spot

photo by Corrie Gustafson

The Messiah College Men’s Club Volleyball team (pictured right) returned in April from the Dallas, Texas NIRSA (National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association) Division II national tournament with the championship trophy and title. The Falcons entered the competition undefeated in the regular season— this year they became the first team to win the Middle Atlantic Conference championship for three consecutive years —and ranked third nationally. After an intensive week of competitive play, the team maintained its winning streak and claimed the championship title with a 25–19 record. 

In addition to the team’s national victory, player-captain Mike Walker ’10 was named Second Team All-National; players Christopher Toote ’08, Michael Frederick ’08, and player-captain Luke Reichel ’09 were named First Team All-National; and player Ted Simmons ’10 was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.

Team advisor Corrie Gustafson, residence director of Sollenberger Residence and Kelly Apartments, says she took the most pride in the team’s attitude. “They played impressive volleyball, but beyond the inspiring skill they showed on the court, I am proud of the way my team represented Christ and Messiah College,” she says. “They focused on their team, they focused on their play, and they focused on God.”

— Anne-Marie Robinson '08