SPORTS SHORTS

Amanda Laing, staff

Canada wins bronze, but left out of world league

In front of a “hometown” crowd at the MTS Centre, the Canadian Men’s National Volleyball team beat the Dominican Republic in three straight sets to take the bronze medal at the NORCECA Championship. In the gold medal match, Cuba, the 2004 champions, were defeated three sets to one by the United States. Despite the strong performance, Canada was not accepted into the 2006 World League when the FIVB announced the league’s expansion to 16 teams from 12. Other notable teams excluded from the league were Venezuela and Finland. Despite the shut-out, Team Canada officials still intend to pursue every avenue available to help them qualify for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.

Team Canada volleyball breaks world record

At the Investors Group Athletic Centre at the University of Manitoba, the Team Canada Volleyball Centre broke the Guinness World Record for the longest volleyball game ever played. Team Canada alumni, junior team members, volunteers and community supporters played for 25 hours and 11 minutes, with Team Canada Black coming out as the eventual winners, 35 sets to 27. The contest was held as a fundraiser for Team Canada Volleyball and to raise support and awareness for the men’s NORCECA Championships held at the MTS Centre.

Crosby watch is on

Even with all of the shuffling and changes going on in the NHL, all eyes are focused on hockey phenom Sidney Crosby. He has already scored his first two preseason goals and seems to be settling in with “Uncle Mario” quite nicely. From time to time, the Manitoban will be covering the progress of the next coming of Wayne Gretzky because, well, how many times will a player like this come along? Please stay tuned for more on our favourite freshman.