The University of the Fraser Valley men's volleyball team opened its exhibition schedule against the Trinity Western Spartans on Saturday evening, dropping a 3-0 decision at the Langley Events Centre.

The Cascades could hardly have picked a more daunting opponent for their preseason curtain-raiser than the reigning U SPORTS national champs, and the Spartans lived up to their advance billing, prevailing by scores of 25-19, 25-16, 25-17.

"It was a great opportunity for us to see what Canada West volleyball should be played like," UFV head coach Nathan Bennett said afterward. "We've been practicing a lot in the last year and a half, and it was a great opportunity to play a game. We have a lot to learn, and we're looking forward to the challenge of the league."

Up next, the Cascades continue their exhibition schedule on the road, facing the UBC Okanagan Heat next Saturday.

Reflecting on the debut vs. TWU, Bennett noted that his squad has just two players with previous Canada West experience, and just one of them – former TRU WolfPack outside hitter Nimo Benne, who was outstanding for the Cascades on Saturday – was on the floor against the Spartans.

"We made too many unforced errors, and when you're facing a quality opponent, that can dictate the match," Bennett observed. 

"In the end, we had everyone on our team play their first Canada West match for the UFV Cascades. That happened tonight. I'm happy with all of the guys, I'm excited for what's to come in the future, and we're prepared for the challenge that's ahead."