Weekend Recap: Kodiaks cross-country secure tickets to nationals

The Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks had an exciting week of play with four teams competing in championships and another four teams playing their first games of the regular season. 

The Kodiaks soccer teams travelled to Grande Prairie for championships play Friday with both teams losing to the Keyano College Huskies in the quarter finals. The women’s team lost 5-1, while the men lost 1-0 

The Kodiaks cross-country teams went to St. Mary’s University in Calgary for championships. play. Both the men’s and women’s teams competed at a high level and secured second-place medals for the team event, which qualifies them to compete at nationals in Windsor, ON in two weeks.

The Kodiaks basketball teams played their first regular season games in a home-and-home series against Medicine Hat College. Both the men’s and women’s teams split their games against the Rattlers. 

The Kodiaks volleyball teams also played their first matches of the regular season, competing against the Medicine Hat Rattlers. The Kodiaks men’s team came away with two wins while the women’s team split their opening matches. 

Kodiaks Soccer:

On Thursday, Oct. 24, the Northwestern Polytechnic Wolves hosted the championship banquet to honour players, teams, and coaches for their accomplishments during the 2024 season.

The Kodiaks women’s team received special recognition, with captain Shelby Bach (fifth year, Early Childhood Education, Medicine Hat) being named to the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) All-Conference team for defense, and Megan Morrison (fourth year, Bachelors of Nursing, Medicine Hat) also earning a spot on the ACAC All-Conference team for midfield.

The Kodiaks men’s team also had a couple of players highlighted. Fifth-year player Wilson Ntignee (Business Administration, Bori, Nigeria) was honoured as an ACAC All-Conference forward, while Jordan Morello (third year, Natural Resource Compliance, Nelson, B.C.) received recognition as an ACAC All-Conference defender.

Oct. 25 WSOC | Kodiaks 1 vs KC Huskies 5

Recap by Northwestern Polytechnic Wolves:

The ACAC provincial soccer championships showcased an electrifying match between the Keyano Huskies and the Lethbridge Kodiaks at Hansen Lincoln Field in Grande Prairie. The Huskies displayed their prowess with a commanding performance, securing a 5-1 victory and advancing to the semifinals.

From the outset, the Huskies controlled the pace of the game, maintaining the majority of possession in the first half. Their early efforts nearly paid off when a powerful shot struck the crossbar, sending a warning to the Kodiaks. Keyano finally broke through in the 21st minute. After an initial attempt was thwarted by a goal line clearance, Ayla Taller capitalized on the rebound, slotting the ball home to give the Huskies a 1-0 lead.

While Keyano continued to press, Lethbridge managed to create opportunities on the counter-attack. A notable chance came from a 2-on-1 break, but the Kodiaks missed the target, leaving them trailing at halftime.

The second half ignited with excitement as the Kodiaks leveled the score just a minute after the restart. First-year player Jadyn Hoy found the net in a scramble inside the box, making it 1-1 in the 46th minute. However, the Huskies quickly regrouped, responding with three goals in a blistering ten-minute span.

Team captain Marissa Mestre showcased her leadership and skill in the 59th minute, finishing a well-placed through ball from Harleen Singh to put Keyano ahead 2-1. Just two minutes later, Rofyda Khaleel extended the lead to 3-1 with an assist from Taller, who was instrumental throughout the match. The onslaught continued when Natalie Orellana scored the Huskies' fourth goal in the 66th minute, assisted by Nathalie Andersson, effectively sealing the game.

Mestre capped off the impressive performance by netting a fifth goal in the final minute of extra time, converting a corner taken by Harleen Singh. The final whistle confirmed the Huskies' resounding 5-1 victory

Players of the Game: 

LPK: #15 Jayna Timinski 

KC: #13 Marissa Mestre

Oct. 25 MSOC | Kodiaks 0 vs KC Huskies 1

Recap by Northwestern Polytechnic Wolves:

In a thrilling playoff matchup on October 25th, the Keyano College Huskies faced off against the Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks at Hanson Field in Grande Prairie, Alberta. The game, held under cool autumn skies, was marked by a high level of intensity and skill from both teams. The Kodiaks started strong, putting early pressure on the Huskies' defense, but the Huskies quickly found their footing. In the 7th minute, Keyano forced a corner kick, and forward Dylan Stewart delivered a solid shot on goal. Eight minutes later, another corner kick from the Huskies led to the first and only goal of the game, with Hafid Arellano finding the net off an assist from Joshua Fitzpatrick. The Huskies continued to push the pace, while Kodiaks' goalkeeper Adam Krisko and Huskies' Corbin Cyprien each made crucial saves to keep their teams in the fight.

The second half saw both teams stepping up their efforts as the Kodiaks searched for an equalizer. Lethbridge's Wilson Ntignee showcased impressive footwork and tried to set up a scoring opportunity for captain Ryder Skolka, but the Kodiaks couldn't quite connect. A few minutes later, the Huskies nearly extended their lead with a powerful 30-yard shot, only for Kodiaks defender Tosin Akinola to deflect it with a precise header. The Kodiaks' efforts to get back in the game intensified, and in the 60th minute, they earned a corner kick that set up a shot from Vincent Dyck, though it sailed over the crossbar. Despite their best efforts and a late-game breakaway attempt by Arellano that forced an great effort save from Krisko, the Kodiaks couldn't find the back of the net.

As the clock ran down, both teams played with urgency. A last-minute corner kick for Lethbridge saw Akinola's header strike the crossbar, just missing the tying goal. After 90 minutes of regulation and an intense 5 minutes of extra time, Keyano College held on to their 1-0 lead, clinching the victory. 

Players of the Game: 

LPK: #16 Tosin Akinola

KC: #17 Dylan Stewart

Cross-country:

The Kodiaks women’s team competed in their six-kilometer run at noon. The team had an excellent showing led by first-year runner Hannah Pilling (first year, Academic Upgrading, Cardston) who finished second with a time of 24:47, followed by Kate Block (second year, Business Administration, Waldheim, Sask.) and Annah Westrop (fourth year, General Arts and Science, Lethbridge)

The women’s team finished second overall, qualifying them for nationals with their top six runners competing: Hannah Pilling, Annah Westrop, Kate Block, Hallee Pilling (second year, Exercise Science, Cardston), Hannah Smith (third year, Exercise Science, Raymond), and Rayanne Hoeflicher (fourth year, Bachelors of Nursing, Middle Lake, Sask.). 

The men’s 8k race followed at 1 p.m., where the Kodiaks battled it out with NAIT Ooks runners for the second-place team title. Owen Stewart (third year, Business Administration – Accounting, Lethbridge) was the first Kodiaks runner to cross the line in 8^th place, followed by Ethan Grasmeyer (second year, Natural Resource Compliance, Smithers, B.C.).

The men’s team finished second overall, qualifying them for nationals as their top six runners will compete: Owen Stewart, Ethan Grasmeyer, Conner Van den Hoek (second year, Business Administration – Management, Fort Macleod), Wacey Smith (first year, Digital Communications and Media, Bentley), Keegan Hartery (second year, Criminal Justice – Policing, Saint John, NB), and Kaysan Mohamed (third year, General Arts and Science, Picture Butte).

The ACAC cross-country championship banquet followed, with players, teams, and coaches recognized for their accomplishments during the 2024 season, as well as results from championships.

Hannah Pilling was honoured as the ACAC 2024 Cross-Country Rookie of the Year and was also recognized as an All-Conference runner. Kodiaks head coach Simon Schaerz was named the ACAC 2024 Cross-Country Coach of the Year. Additionally, Hannah Pilling, Kate Block, Owen Stewart, Ethan Grasmeyer, and Wacey Smith were acknowledged for their top-ten standings in the overall Grand Prix rankings. 

Basketball:

Oct. 26 WBB | Kodiaks 68 vs MHC Rattlers 59

The Kodiaks women’s basketball team kicked off the 2024 season on their home court against their Highway 3 rivals, Medicine Hat Rattlers. The game started off with both teams exchanging baskets, setting the tone for a competitive matchup. The Rattlers showed early promise, leveraging strong offensive plays to maintain a slight lead. However, Kodiaks quickly found their rhythm, responding with effective ball movement and aggressive drives to the basket.

As the second quarter unfolded, Medicine Hat College made crucial adjustments and fought back. The Rattlers found their rhythm, leveraging their offensive capabilities to close the gap. However, Lethbridge maintained pressure, with contributions from their bench players sparking a scoring surge. The back-and-forth action culminated in a tightly contested finish, leading to a surprising halftime score of 33-33. Both teams showcased their defensive skills, making scoring opportunities hard to come by.

The third quarter saw a shift in momentum as both teams increased their defensive intensity, forcing turnovers and creating fast-break opportunities. This kept the scoring to a minimum as the quarter came to a close the Rattlers had a two-point lead.

Entering the fourth quarter, Lethbridge quickly took control, thanks to timely baskets from Gaby Power (third year, Early Childhood Education, Calgary) and Halle Aleman (first year, Open Studies, Lethbridge). Medicine Hat made several attempts to rally, but Lethbridge's offensive consistency proved too much to overcome. The Kodiaks sealed their victory with crucial free throws from Chase Wells-Creighton (first year, Exercise Science, Stand Off, Alta.), winning on their home court 68-59.

Players of the Game:

LPK: #9 Courtney Deemter (third year, Bachelors of Nursing, Calgary)

MHC: #8 Breanna O'Connor 

Oct. 26 WBB | Kodiaks 50 at MHC Rattlers 59

The game kicked off with a competitive atmosphere as both teams aimed to establish their presence. The Rattlers took an early lead, showcasing their offensive prowess with a series of effective plays. The Kodiaks struggled to find their rhythm, trailing 22-18 at the end of the quarter. Courtney Deemter’s offence helped to keep the deficit manageable.

In the second quarter, the Kodiaks intensified their efforts, demonstrating improved defence and teamwork. They managed to close the gap, with Gaby Power contributing crucial points in the paint. However, Medicine Hat maintained its composure and countered with key plays, including three-pointers that stretched their lead. The quarter concluded with a score of 38-25, leaving Lethbridge in need of a strong second half to turn the game around.

The third quarter saw Lethbridge rallying with renewed energy. Deemter’s aggressive defence led to multiple steals, creating scoring opportunities for her team. Power’s layups and strong rebounding efforts began to shift the momentum. Despite Kodiaks efforts, Medicine Hat responded effectively, hitting timely shots to keep a comfortable lead. The quarter ended at 43-35, with Kodiaks making noticeable progress, but still trailing. 

As the final quarter unfolded, the Kodiaks surged with determination. They quickly scored two consecutive baskets, narrowing the gap to 43-37, prompting a timeout from Medicine Hat. However, the opposition's response was swift, as the Rattlers hit critical shots to maintain their advantage. Lethbridge fought hard, with Bailey Blackmore (first year, Bachelors of Nursing, Magrath) hitting a late three-pointer that reignited hope. Despite their late-game push, the final buzzer marked a 59-50 loss for the Kodiaks.

Players of the Game:

LPK: #10 Halle Aleman

MHC: -

Oct. 25 MBB | Kodiaks 68 vs MHC Rattlers 82

The game began with both teams showcasing their offensive strategies. The Rattlers quickly established a rhythm, utilizing effective ball movement to create scoring opportunities. By the end of the first quarter, the Rattlers had built a slight lead as the Kodiaks struggled to find their footing, facing challenges in defence and shot selection.

In the second quarter, the Rattlers lead continued to grow, demonstrating strong teamwork and defensive intensity. Turnovers from Lethbridge only helped the Rattlers as they converted them into points. Despite some late efforts from the Kodiaks, including a few successful drives to the hoop by Ryan Degner (fourth year, Open Studies, Lethbridge), they ended the half trailing 41-35.

As the third quarter got underway, Medicine Hat continued to dominate, scoring efficiently while maintaining a tight defence. The Kodiaks attempted to claw back into the game, with Rhett Lewis (second year, General Arts and Science, Cardston) and Cody Tollestrup (second year, General Arts and Science, Magrath) providing some offensive sparks. However, their efforts were not enough to shift the momentum, and Medicine Hat's lead held steady at 60-48 as they headed into the final quarter.

The final quarter saw Lethbridge making a final push to close the gap. They started strong with Degner scoring early, but Medicine Hat responded effectively, maintaining composure and continuing to score. As Lethbridge pushed hard, Treydon Barton (third year, General Arts and Science, Raymond) hit a three-pointer, momentarily igniting hope. However, Medicine Hat’s free-throw accuracy and rebounding prowess sealed the game. Medicine Hat was able to hold on to their lead, securing a 82-68 victory.

Players of the Game:

LPK: #3 Cole Lake (fourth year, Business Administration, Eagle, Idaho)

MHC: #23 Cooper Ward

Oct. 26 MBB | Kodiaks 84 at MHC Rattlers 80

The game began with an explosive performance from the Kodiaks, who quickly established dominance on both ends of the court. Lethbridge's offence was firing on all cylinders, taking an early lead with precise shooting and aggressive drives to the basket. The Rattlers struggled to keep pace, facing a series of turnovers and missed shots. By the end of the quarter, Lethbridge had built a commanding lead with a score of 29-15, leaving Medicine Hat with plenty of work to do in the following quarters.

As the second quarter unfolded, Medicine Hat regrouped and made adjustments to their strategy. They came out with renewed energy, tightening their defence and improving their shot selection. Lethbridge started to let them back into the game and the gap closed slightly, though Lethbridge continued to put up a fight. The quarter ended with Lethbridge holding a 41-34 lead, demonstrating resilience even as Medicine Hat chipped away at their lead.

The third quarter saw Lethbridge looking to reassert their dominance. They continued to build on their lead, with solid teamwork and effective scoring that pushed the advantage to 45-34. Lethbridge's strong defense kept them ahead, closing the quarter with a score of 66-54.

In the final quarter, Medicine Hat tried to mount a comeback. They executed fast breaks and critical baskets sparking hope among their crowd. As the clock ticked down, the game intensified, with both teams exchanging crucial points. Lethbridge's Corey Banks (first year, Architectural Animation Technology, Canmore) came through in the clutch, hitting key free throws to maintain their lead. Although Medicine Hat managed a late layup, it wasn't enough to change the outcome. The Kodiaks held on to their lead, winning 84-80.

Players of the Game:

LPK: #8 Corey Banks

MHC: #4 Eli Koller  

Volleyball:

Oct. 25 WVB | Kodiaks 3 at MHC Rattlers 1 (19-25, 25-10, 25-15, 25-23)

In a thrilling opening match of the season, the Kodiaks faced off against the Rattlers. The match showcased exceptional play and set the tone for what promises to be an exciting season. 

The first set kicked off with a fierce contest, as Medicine Hat Rattlers came out strong, taking an early lead. With sharp attacks and solid defence, they dominated the set, finishing with a 25-19 victory. Lethbridge struggled to find its rhythm, making several unforced errors that allowed Medicine Hat to maintain control. 

The second set saw a dramatic turnaround as the Kodiaks adjusted their strategy. They came out with renewed energy and focused on their offensive game. Kourtney Serfas (second year, Bachelors of Nursing, Turin) and Aideena Wickstrom (fifth year, Exercise Science, Coaldale) led the charge, contributing significantly to their scoring. Medicine Hat struggled to keep pace, and Lethbridge cruised to a 25-10 win, showcasing their defensive prowess and efficient attack.

Lethbridge continued to build on its momentum in the third set, dominating from the start. Robyn Austin (first year, Business Administration – Accounting, Lethbridge) was a standout performer, consistently finding openings in the Medicine Hat defence. The set ended at 25-15, with Lethbridge showing off their impressive teamwork and communication on the court. The Kodiaks effectively limited the Rattlers' scoring opportunities, making it difficult for them to mount any significant challenges.

Despite the mounting pressure, Medicine Hat refused to go down without a fight in the fourth set. They rallied back, pushing Lethbridge to the limit and keeping the score close. However, the Kodiaks’ relentless determination shone through as they pulled ahead in crucial moments. The set ended at 25-23, sealing the match for Lethbridge Polytechnic.

Oct. 26 WVB | Kodiaks 0 vs MHC Rattlers 3 (21-25, 10-25, 25-23)

The opening set was a closely contested battle. The Kodiaks started strong, displaying a well-rounded attack that allowed them to take an early lead. However, the Rattlers quickly rallied, demonstrating resilience and adaptability which had them close out the set with a score of 25-21.

The second set was a stark contrast to the first, as Medicine Hat College completely took control. The Kodiaks struggled to maintain momentum and fell behind, ending the set at a disappointing 25-10. Medicine Hat's defence was at a high level, allowing them to cruise through the set and build significant confidence.

The third set proved to be the most intense, as the Kodiaks fought back valiantly. They made adjustments and showcased their fighting spirit, pushing the Rattlers to the limit. With impressive rallies and strategic plays, Lethbridge managed to keep the score tight, forcing several lead changes. However, Medicine Hat remained composed under pressure, securing the set at 25-24.

Players of the Game:

LPK: #16 Quincy Price (second year, General Arts and Science, Coaldale)

MHC: #5 Fayth Spencer  

Oct. 25 MVB | Kodiaks 3 at MHC Rattlers 0 (25-21, 25-23, 25-16)

The first set kicked off with both teams demonstrating strong attacks, but the Kodiaks quickly established their dominance. With an impressive offensive performance, they leveraged their key players, notably Nolan Moes (fifth year, Natural Resource Compliance, Barrhead) and Kohlbe Anderson (second year, Business Administration, Claymont, Delaware, USA), who combined for 13 kills in the set. Medicine Hat fought hard, but Lethbridge's ability to capitalize on opportunities allowed its to secure the set with a score of 25-21.

The second set proved to be a closer contest as Medicine Hat College pushed back with determination. They managed to keep pace with Lethbridge for most of the set. Despite the pressure, Lethbridge maintained composure, and thanks to timely plays from Ethan Nashim (fifth year, Open Studies, Lac La Biche) and Shaye Wall (fourth year, Bachelor of Ecosystem Management, Swift Current, Sask.), they edged out Medicine Hat with a narrow 25-23 victory, showcasing their resilience under pressure. 

In the third set, the Kodiaks continued their momentum, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive prowess. They efficiently executed their game plan, leading to a commanding performance that left Medicine Hat struggling to respond. Lethbridge's strong teamwork and strategic plays allowed it to dominate the set, finishing strong at 25-16.

Players of the Game:

LPK: #14 Nolan Moes

MHC: -

Oct. 26 MVB | Kodiaks 3 at MHC Rattlers 1 (25-23, 25-17,2 3-25, 25-17)

The opening set was a tightly contested affair, with both teams exchanging points and momentum. The Kodiaks managed to edge out Medicine Hat 25-23. Ethan Nashim was the standout player for Lethbridge, contributing 13 kills and demonstrating an impressive hitting percentage of .857. Medicine Hat fought hard, but Lethbridge's solid defence and timely offensive plays allowed it to take the early lead in the match.

Lethbridge continued to assert its dominance in the second set, winning convincingly 25-17. The Kodiaks capitalized on their momentum, showcasing a balanced attack and strong defensive plays that limited Medicine Hat’s scoring opportunities. With Medicine Hat struggling to find its rhythm, Lethbridge took advantage and built a comfortable lead, leaving Medicine Hat with little chance to mount a comeback.

The tide turned in the third set as Medicine Hat found its rhythm and claimed a crucial 25-23 victory. The Rattlers captain Jordan McKee delivered an impressive performance with 19 kills and a hitting percentage of .727. His contributions energized the team and revitalized their chances in the match, allowing Medicine Hat to rally and secure its only set win.

In the final set, Lethbridge regained control and wrapped up the match with another 25-17 win. The Kodiaks effectively utilized their balanced offensive strategy while their defense continued to hold strong against Medicine Hat's attacks. Lethbridge’s ability to close out the match showcased its composure and skill, ensuring a convincing victory in this competitive matchup.

Players of the Game:

LPK: #3 Ethan Nashim

MHC: #5 Jordan Mckee