Rachel Bartel, Volleyball

Rachel Bartel knew she had to step up in what’s now a preview of her team’s MCAC women’s volleyball semifinal.
The third-year left side from Canadian Mennonite University led her team, without a star outside hitter and starting setter, to a 3-0 win over Assiniboine Community College in the CCAA marquee matchup of the week on Saturday.
Bartel is the MCAC female athlete of the week.
“Rachel has been the backbone of our team all season, and has been called on even more so lately as our group deals with some injuries up and down the lineup,” said Blazers head coach Jayme Menzies.
“She brings a very well-rounded game to the court every night, never willing to sacrifice her play defensively for an offensive opportunity. Most of all, Rachel holds us together emotionally when scores get tight and the team is on the edge of sinking or succeeding. She is the difference-maker.”
Bartel posted 10 kills, seven digs and an ace in the home-court victory to bring the Blazers and Cougars to a tie for second at 6-6.
Meanwhile, the Providence University College Pilots clinched first place with a win over the Université de Saint-Boniface Les Rouges.
This weekend won’t have any conference matches, as the Millar College of the Bible Edge tour the league as a potential addition in the future. They visit ACC on Thursday, USB on Friday, and CMU and PUC on Saturday.