LEADING OFF
Loyola Chicago is set to face Lewis in the MIVA Tournament semifinals on April 22 at 7 p.m. This highly anticipated match features the No. 2-seeded Ramblers against the 6-seeded Flyers.
QUICK HITS
- The Ramblers currently sit at 10th in the AVCA poll and rank fifth in the Division I Men’s Volleyball RPI. This shows they are a strong contender this season.
- In their quarterfinals match against Purdue Fort Wayne on April 18, four players scored in the double digits: Josh Schellinger (14), Daniel Fabikovic (13), Bryce Robbins (13), and Aidan Klein (12). Fabikovic also made nine digs, while Klein led with seven blocks.
- Five Ramblers earned All-MIVA honors. Schellinger, Fabikovic, and Klein secured First Team spots, while Ryan McElligott and Oskar Berg Mikkelsen were named to the Second Team. Notably, this is Klein’s first All-Conference selection.
- Klein leads the MIVA with a .515 hitting percentage and ranks third in blocks with 1.04 per set. He also finds himself among the top 25 nationally for service aces and points.
- As a team, the Ramblers are thriving. They rank second in hitting percentage, points, kills, and assists within the MIVA. On a national level, they are fifth in assists and kills per set.
- Head coach Shane Davis celebrated his 300th career win this season, highlighting his incredible journey with the team.
- This season marks the 30th anniversary of men’s volleyball at Loyola. Since 1996, the team has brought home two national championships and has never finished with a losing record.
SCOUTING REPORT
Lewis wrapped up its regular season with a record of 17-13 and an 8-8 standing in league play. As a team, they excel in blocking, leading the MIVA with 2.48 blocks per set. They also rank well in opponent hitting percentage and digs. Key players include senior libero Nico Paula and redshirt sophomore setter Cameron Hoying, both named First Team All-MIVA.
SERIES HISTORY
Loyola has a narrow edge over Lewis in their historical matchup, leading 39-36. The Ramblers have beaten the Flyers in both encounters this season. Last year, they faced off in the MIVA Tournament semifinals as well, with Loyola sweeping Lewis in straight sets and ultimately claiming the championship title.
Recent statistics indicate that college men’s volleyball is rapidly growing, with a survey showing a 20% increase in participation over the past decade. This reflects a rising interest in the sport at the collegiate level.
Looking at social media trends, fans are buzzing with excitement about the upcoming match, sharing predictions and highlights from previous games. The rivalry is heating up, and both teams are ready to make their mark.
For more details on men’s volleyball, visit the official page of the NCAA or check the latest updates on ESPN.
