Weekend Recap: Kodiaks deliver big performances in action-packed weekend

The Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks competed in a loaded weekend with all four winter sports. Basketball and volleyball battled it out with Olds, futsal travelled to Medicine Hat seeking redemption, and indoor track raced in their first meet of the season in Edmonton.

Women’s basketball

Jan. 24 WBB | Kodiaks 61 vs Olds College Broncos 51 

In the first matchup against the Broncos, the Kodiaks struggled to find their rhythm out of the gate but managed to tie the game at 11-11. A crucial steal by Annah Westrop (fourth year, General Arts and Science, Lethbridge) set up Halle Aleman (first year, Open Studies, Lethbridge) for a fast-break layup to take the lead, but Olds fought back and ended the quarter ahead 16-14. In the second quarter, the Kodiaks capitalized on defensive turnovers, with steals from Bailey Blackmore (first year, Bachelor of Nursing, Magrath) and Chase Wells-Creighton (first year, Exercise Science, Stand Off) contributing to a fast-paced transition game. A series of layups from Layla Vaz (first year, Open Studies, Lethbridge) and Nyomi Heins (first year, Open Studies, Diamond City) helped the Kodiaks stretch their lead. By the end of the half, Lethbridge led 34-22.

In the third quarter, Aleman and Blackmore provided strong offensive support, with Aleman hitting a couple of three-pointers and Blackmore contributing with assists and defensive rebounds. Summer James (third year, Exercise Science, Mountain View), also played pivotal roles in maintaining the Kodiaks' momentum, especially with aggressive rebounding and assists. Heins came off the bench and added to the team's defensive efforts as the quarter came to a close with Kodiaks up 50-32. In the fourth quarter, Lethbridge maintained a steady advantage as players like Nyla Butler (first year, Open Studies, Lethbridge) contributed offensively and defensively. With solid teamwork, the Kodiaks sealed their victory, winning 61-51.

Players of the Game:

LPK: #10 Halle Aleman

OC: #11 Paige Hillman

Jan. 25 WBB | Kodiaks 70 vs Olds College Broncos 61 

In the opening quarter, Kodiaks players Blackmore and Wells-Creighton contributed early points setting the pace of the game. Lethbridge continued to capitalize on turnovers, with Aleman scoring a fast-break layup after a steal. Throughout the quarter, the Kodiaks' defence, led by steals from Aleman and Wells-Creighton, kept Olds College trailing 20-17. In the second quarter, James and Wells-Creighton also helped push the offence. The Kodiaks' defence and rebounding, particularly from Butler and Blackmore, ensured they maintained control as they went into the halftime break ahead by three, 36-33.

In the third quarter, the Kodiaks players maintained a steady lead, Blackmore hit crucial free throws and a three-pointer, while Wells-Creighton also added points to extend the Kodiaks' advantage. The Kodiaks' defence, led by Butler and Aleman, stifled Olds College's offensive attempts. The quarter ended with a strong finish as Vaz and Blackmore hit important shots, finishing 61-47.

In the fourth quarter, Chase Wells-Creighton opened with a layup, and the Kodiaks continued to control the game with smart defensive plays and offensive rebounds from players like Blackmore and Aleman. Westrop added crucial free throws, and Vaz and Aleman sealed the win with timely scoring. Despite some late attempts from Olds College, the Kodiaks held their ground with a consistent defensive effort, securing a comfortable win with a final score of 70-61.

Players of the Game:

LPK: #12 Nyla Butler

OC: #1 Bree Hagen

Men’s basketball

Jan. 24 MBB | Kodiaks 85 vs Olds College Broncos 79 

In the Kodiaks first game of the season against the Olds College Broncos, the Kodiaks came out slow allowing Olds to build an early lead, with the score at 13-6 before Lethbridge started to fight back. Ryan Degner (fourth year, Open Studies, Lethbridge) made key free throws and a three-pointer, cutting the deficit to 27-16 by the end of the quarter. The second quarter saw a more competitive energy from the Kodiaks. Jackson Wright (second year, Business Administration, Claresholm) and Levi Balderson (first year, General Arts and Science, Welling) combined for some quick points, narrowing the gap. Degner continued his strong performance with free throws, and the team showed more resilience. Despite a solid fight, the Kodiaks found themselves trailing 44-36 at the half.

In the third quarter, the Kodiaks mounted a steady comeback against the Broncos, with several players stepping up. Corey Banks (first year, Architectural Animation Technology, Canmore), Balderson, and Degner contributed key plays. Cole Lake (fourth year, Business Administration, Eagle, Idaho) added multiple layups, while Wright's defence and assists helped shift momentum. As the quarter progressed, Lethbridge stretched their lead, finishing 64-61 at the end of the third.

In the last quarter, the Kodiaks' defence remained tight, forcing turnovers and securing offensive rebounds. Balderson and Wright continued to deliver, with Balderson knocking down a critical three-pointer and Wright adding a key jumper. As the Broncos struggled to keep up, Lethbridge’s depth showed, with strong contributions from all corners of the court. The Kodiaks held on to their lead with consistent shooting and timely free throws winning 85-79.

Players of the Game:

LPK: #14 Jackson Wright

OC: #7 Gurech Gurech

Jan. 25 MBB | Kodiaks 79 vs Olds College Broncos 62 

Both teams struggled to find their rhythm early, but the Kodiaks quickly found their groove. Degner's three-pointer helped Lethbridge out of the slow start. Lake and Wright contributed several rebounds and defensive plays, while Balderson hit some key three-pointers, pushing the Kodiaks' lead. As the game progressed, the Kodiaks continued to dominate defensively, with Cody Tollestrup (second year, General Arts and Science, Magrath) contributing multiple key rebounds and scoring opportunities. The Kodiaks ended the quarter up 20-7.

By the second quarter, Lethbridge's offence was thriving, with Tollestrup adding several baskets and assists that extended the Kodiaks' lead. Despite some solid shots from Olds College, the Kodiaks' defence and efficient offence led to a comfortable halftime advantage 37-23.

At the start of the second half, the Kodiaks maintained a steady lead against Olds College. Degner and Ryker Dewsbery (second year, General Studies, Raymond) were pivotal in controlling the boards. The Kodiaks showcased strong defensive plays and capitalized on turnovers, pushing their lead to 60-41.

As the fourth quarter began, the Kodiaks continued their pressure. Tollestrup, Degner and Rhett Lewis (second year, General Arts and Science, Cardston) were especially effective in both offence and defence, with Tollestrup scoring critical layups and Lewis hitting a clutch three-pointer. The Kodiaks' defence stifled Olds College’s offensive attempts, and Lethbridge’s depth, with contributions from players like Wright, Lewis, and Tollestrup, kept the score ticking upwards. Despite Olds College’s best efforts, the Kodiaks sealed a comfortable 79-62 victory.

Players of the Game:

LPK: #15 Cody Tollestrup

OC: #20 Xavier Williamson

Women’s volleyball

Jan. 24 WVB | Kodiaks 2 vs Olds College Broncos 3 (20-25, 23-25, 25-23, 25-16, 9-15) 

The Kodiaks women's volleyball team battled Olds College in an intense five-set match but ultimately fell 3-2. After dropping the first two sets 20-25 and 23-25, the Kodiaks mounted a strong comeback in the third and fourth sets, winning 25-23 and 25-16 to tie the match. However, Olds College regained control in the fifth set, edging out a 15-9 victory to clinch the win.

Kourtney Serfas (second year, Bachelor of Nursing, Turin) and Aideena Wickstrom (fifth year, Exercise Science, Coaldale) were key contributors for the Kodiaks, each finishing with 12 and 13 points. Taryn Bach (fourth year, Open Studies, Lethbridge) and Quincy Price (second year, General Arts and Science, Coaldale) played strong defensive roles, each recording significant digs.

Jan. 25 WVB | Kodiaks 2 vs Olds College Broncos 3 (20-25, 25-22, 25-21, 15-25, 13-15) 

In their second matchup of the weekend, the Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks women's volleyball team again faced Olds College, but despite a strong effort, the Kodiaks lost 3-2. The Kodiaks dropped the first set 20-25, but bounced back to win the second and third sets 25-22 and 25-21, taking a 2-1 lead in the match. Unfortunately, Olds College came back strong in the fourth set, claiming a 25-15 victory, and then clinched the match with a 15-13 win in the fifth.

Serfas and Robyn Austin (first year, Business Administration – Accounting, Lethbridge) led the Kodiaks' attack, both finishing with 11 and 13 points, respectively. Aideena Wickstrom contributed 10 points, while the middles Emma Blumenschein (third year, Bachelors of Nursing, Spruce Groves, Alta.) and Lauren Barker (third year, Interior Design Technologies, Calgary) added four points each. Despite solid defensive contributions from Reese Hanusich and a strong performance in digs from multiple players, the Kodiaks couldn't secure the win in the final set. Their inability to finish in the fifth set ultimately handed the match to Olds College.

Men’s volleyball

Jan. 24 MVB | Kodiaks 3 vs Olds College Broncos 0 (25-23, 26-24, 25-23) 

In a strong performance, the Kodiaks men's volleyball team swept Olds College 3-0 in their weekend match. The Kodiaks took control early, winning the first set 25-23, the second set 26-24, and finishing with a 25-23 score in the third set. Olds College struggled to get any traction, and the Kodiaks capitalized on nearly every opportunity.

Nolan Moes (fifth year, Natural Resource Compliance, Barrhead, Alta.) and Ethan Nashim (fifth year, Open Studies, Lac La Biche, Alta.) were the standout performers, leading the team with 13 and 12 points, respectively. Kohlbe Anderson (second year, Business Administration, Claymont, Del.) contributed eight points, helping the Kodiaks maintain a balanced offensive attack. The Kodiaks had solid contributions across the board, including strong defensive plays and no errors. The team's strong teamwork and relentless energy was evident in their win over the Broncos.

Jan. 25 MVB | Kodiaks 3 vs Olds College Broncos 1 (25-20, 25-23, 20-25, 27-25) 

In their second matchup of the weekend, the Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks men's volleyball team claimed a 3-1 victory over Olds College. The Kodiaks took the first two sets with scores of 25-20 and 25-23, but Olds College fought back in the third set, winning 25-20. The Kodiaks refocused in the fourth set and closed out the match with a hard-fought 27-25 win, securing the 3-1 victory.

Moes was the standout player for the Kodiaks, finishing with a team-high 21 points. Nashim also had a stellar performance, adding 15 points to the total. Ben St. Pierre (fourth year, Open Studies, Red Deer) played a key role defensively with seven digs. Despite strong resistance from Olds College, the Kodiaks' balanced offensive attack and solid defensive effort helped them secure the win in four sets.

Women’s futsal

Jan. 25 WFUT | Kodiaks 2 vs Medicine Hat College Rattlers 1

The Kodiaks women’s futsal team travelled to take on their Highway 3 rivals, Medicine Hat College Rattlers. This was a competitive game with shots going both ways. Kodiaks goalkeeper Kiara Jankowiak (second year, General Arts and Science, Lethbridge) came up with huge saves for the team. The Rattlers didn’t stop putting on the offensive pressure and scored late in the first half.

Starting the second half, the Kodiaks came out with new speed and determination. With a quick transition up the court from Jankowiak to Sophie DeMarsh (first year, General Arts and Science - Pysch/Soc, Calgary), catching the Rattlers defence off guard and the Kodiaks were able to tie the score. The Kodiaks kept up the offensive pressure with Hannah Bradford (General Arts and Science, Abbotsford, B.C.) winning a battle for the ball and setting up Aniesha Wijesena (third year, Open Studies, Airdrie, Alta.) for the Kodiaks second goal and the lead. Lethbridge upped their defensive structure not allowing very many shots from the Rattlers to get through. As time on the clock ticked down the Kodiaks came away with a victory 2-1 over Medicine Hat to tie up their records at 1-1.

Men’s futsal

Jan. 25 MFUT | Kodiaks 1 vs Medicine Hat College Rattlers 9

The Kodiak men’s futsal team played in the Medicine Hat College Rattlers “Snake Pit” on Saturday night. The team was able to get off several good shots in the first couple minutes of play, but the Rattlers were the first to get on the board. The Kodiaks fought back and with a good play from Jaxon Uhl (third year, Business Administration – Management, Lethbridge), to Bronson Schlichter (first year, Exercise Science, Lethbridge) assisting Wilson Ntignee (fifth year, Business Administration, Bori, Nigeria), they tied the score. The Rattlers didn’t back down as they were able to score two more making it a 3-1 game going into the second half.

In the second half, the Rattlers maintained the control and momentum of the match. The Kodiaks defence fell apart allowing Medicine Hat to run the board. The match ended with the Rattlers winning 9-1 handing the Kodiaks their second loss of the season.

Indoor Track

Jan. 25 IT | Grand Prix #1 hosted by Concordia University of Edmonton

The Kodiaks had a great first showing at the Kinsmen Sports Centre in Edmonton for the first Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) Running Room Grand Prix of the season. In a combined men’s and women’s score, the Kodiaks placed first with 138 combined points, SAIT came in second with 114 combined points, and Red Deer Polytechnic placed third with 101 combined points.

Individually on the men’s side there were some standout performances with newcomer Tyler Wiebe (first year, Pre-Carpenter Certificate, Coaldale) placed third in the 50-metre event (6:25) and second in the 300m event (37.75). Conner Van den Hoek (second year, Business Management, Fort Macleod) placed second in the 600 m (1:28.87), and Owen Stewart (third year, Business Administration – Accounting, Lethbridge) placed first in the 1,500 m (4:15.21). Both the Kodiaks men’s 4x200 m relay (1:35.49) and 4x400 m relay (3:45.36) teams finished first. Additionally, Hunter Graves (second year, General Arts and Science, Raymond) broke the Kodiaks school and ACAC record for the 300 m wheelchair event (1:06.80).

On the women’s side, newcomer Hana Oikawa (first year, Environmental Assessment and Restoration, Lethbridge) ran a strong race, placing fifth in the 50 m (7:30). Double-sport athlete Paighton Kumson (second year, Correctional Studies, Edmonton) delivered a solid performance, finishing sixth in the 300 m (45.47). Kate Block (second year, Business Administration, Waldheim, Sask.) was our top mid-distance performer, placing third in the 600 m (1:46.39). First year Hannah Pilling (first year, Academic Upgrading, Cardston) performed well in the long-distance category, finishing second in the 3,000 m (11:19.85). The Kodiaks women’s 4x200 m relay (1:54.36) and 4x400 m relay (4:36.27) teams performed well, finishing second in both events.