#2 Ranked Lakers Set to Face Four Top-10 Teams at FLCC Invite
Canandaigua, N.Y. - It has been over a month since the Lakers last faced a junior college opponent, and they will be tested immediately as four top-10 teams take the Putt Moore Court this weekend for the FLCC Invite. Finger Lakes is set to face No. 1 DuPage, No. 3 Nassau, No. 5 Bryant & Stratton (WI), and No. 10 Monroe, marking the toughest stretch of competition for the Lakers this season as they prepare for postseason play.
FLCC enters the four-game slate with confidence, having already defeated two of the participating teams earlier this year. At their first tournament of the season, the Lakers earned four-set victories over both Monroe and Nassau. They will look to build on those performances this weekend, knowing both programs have continued to improve as the season has progressed.
FLCC enters the weekend with an impressive 17-1 record and a 17-game winning streak. The Lakers will look to carry that momentum into a challenging slate of competition this weekend.
Players to Watch
Sophomore Setter Cole Thomas (Fayetteville, N.Y. / Chittenango) has undoubtedly been the leader of the Lakers this season. He has totaled 421 assists while also contributing 44 kills, hitting an impressive .314 on the year. What stands out most, however, is his ability at the service line, where he has racked up 54 service aces. Thomas will certainly be a player to watch this weekend
Outside Hitter Zach Sipos (Canandaigua, N.Y. / Canandaigua Academy) has impressed in his freshman campaign, totaling 134 kills while hitting an outstanding .313. He will look to lead the Lakers' offense this weekend as their primary option.
Sophomore Right Side Ethan Bond (Phelps, N.Y. / Midlakes) has also put together a strong season, recording 122 kills with a .226 hitting percentage. He has been a force at the net as well, totaling 23 blocks—second most on the team.
The Lakers will open the four-game stretch on Friday with a pair of matchups, taking on No. 1 DuPage at 4 PM and No. 3 Nassau at 12 PM. On Saturday, FLCC will honor its sophomores in a pregame ceremony before facing Monroe at 12 PM, followed by a matchup against Bryant & Stratton (WI) at 2 PM. Come out and show your support!