Blomenkamp, McBride To Be Honored Saturday

Saturday, November 12

Phoenix, AZ

6 p.m.

Grand Canyon

Dixie State

Stephanie McBride, left, and Brooke Blomenkamp will be recognized at Senior Night Saturday.

11/11/2011 2:23:00 PM | Volleyball

Seniors To Play Final Match At Antelope Gymnasium

By: Steve Heath

Grand Canyon (21-6, 11-4) will celebrate the careers of Brooke Blomenkamp and Stephanie McBride prior to Saturday’s Senior Night Pacific West Conference volleyball match with Dixie State (13-10, 8-7) at Antelope Gymnasium.

The Antelopes are hopeful to celebrate a victory, too, and improve their chances of making it to the postseason for the first time since 1995.

GCU is No. 7 in the latest NCAA Division II West Region rankings and have won a school-record 13 straight matches. The top eight advance to next week’s region tournament. The tournament selection show will be shown live on NCAA.com at 8 p.m. Sunday.

“It’s a big moment in anyone’s career,” said Blomenkamp on preparing for Saturday’s ceremony. “This year has been extra special with our team chemistry and the possibility of playing in the post season. I don’t think you could have a better ending to a year.”

“With the turnaround we’ve had (GCU was 10-19 last season), it’s been a very special season,” said McBride. “Our team chemistry has been great. (Saturday) will be an emotional and very special night.”

GCU defeated Dixie State 3-0 in St. George, Utah last week, clinching at least a share of second place in the PacWest. The ’Lopes have exceeded expectations of many, as they were picked sixth in the preseason coaches’ poll.

First serve is scheduled for 6 p.m. Fans unable to attend the contest can follow the action with live stats and live video available on the GCU women’s volleyball schedule page.