Saint Mary's University is the host site for the AUS Championships this year, where the Sea-Hawks will be taking on the SMU Huskies Friday evening.
The 2nd seeded Sea-Hawks are 4 and 1 against the Huskie's this year, and most recently swept them in November. While many have suggested that Memorial and Dalhousie are the clear favourites to take home the AUS title, coach John Slauenwhite was quick to remind everyone where his team's focus is right now.
"We have been preparing to play the semi-finals first and not look past SMU. The team understands they need to commit to being discipline with our block and defence if we want to be successful. There are no easy matches at this point of the season and we expect SMU to be ready." Slauenwhite stressed that his team was focusing on their semi-final match and not looking ahead to a potential rematch with Dalhousie.
That might be for the best, given the talent on the Huskies. Despite the sweep in November SMU twice forced a 5th set, giving the Hawks everything they could handle. That said, Memorial has been rolling coming into the playoffs. Last year's MVP Jill Snow has been on a different planet, leading the AUS in kills per set, total kills and service aces. Maiya Westwood has been a force of late as well, averaging an incredible 10 assists per set this year.
Still, the Sea-Hawks will need all guns firing this weekend against SMU. The Huskies have the advantage of home court where they are 8 and 3 this year, while Memorial is 5 and 3 on the road. The game begins 7:30 PM and every game in the AUS Championships can be streamed live via AUStv.ca.