By Grace Malec, Sports Editor
The 90’s made a comeback for another year at Aquinas College. Saints fans packed Sturrus Sports and Fitness Center sporting their best neon, tye-die and throwback gear to support the number twelve ranked team in the nation, the Aquinas College Women’s Volleyball Team.
Fans brought the energy and made Sturrus vibrant in an intense battle against cross-town rivals, the Cornerstone University Golden Eagles. The Saints took a three-set sweep against the Golden Eagles, taking the lead early, winning sets one and two and finishing with a nail-biting third set. Graduate student Mallory Keller secured the Saints win with two kills, ending the match 32-30.
This throwback game isn’t just a fan favorite, but also a favorite for the players. Outside hitter, Keller said, “Last night was my first time playing in front of a packed crowd in two years and the experience was unforgettable. The atmosphere was so exciting with everyone dressed in 90s gear and the energy from the fans made the game even more intense.” It is clear that the 90’s night hype is felt by the entire team. Senior Lydia Harper said “Coming from a Division l program, I can definitely say there isn’t a game and atmosphere like 90’s night around which makes it so special.” In addition to hosting a buzzing student section, Aquinas also hosted several local high school volleyball teams, hoping to inspire the next generation of athletes. “My favorite part of 90’s night is being able to have a lot of young girls in the gym who are excited about the sport and we get to give them the opportunity to watch high-level collegiate volleyball,” Harper said.
The fun didn’t stop there for AQ fans. In addition to keeping a high-energy game environment going all night long with 90’s music and an enthusing game, the Women’s Volleyball team also hosted a best dressed competition and best sign competition along with a best-dressed high school team showdown. The Aquinas College Dance Team also gave an exciting performance. To begin all the fun, two players from the new professional volleyball team in Grand Rapids, the Grand Rapids Rise, participated in the game-opening serve.
The electric 90’s night game is a fan favorite year-after-year at Aquinas, and this year was not an exception and did not disappoint. The theme game brings a large school spirit to the small campus of Aquinas College and all students look forward to this event each and every year.
The Saints continue their season playing at Rochester Christian University, taking on the Rochester Christian Warriors and the Great Lakes Christian College Crusaders on the road, and then coming home to play the University of Michigan – Dearborn Wolverines on Wednesday, Oct. 2. Come out and support your nationally ranked Aquinas Saints.
Photos Below:
The Saints shine bright ahead of the match against Cornerstone University – photo courtesy of Aquinas College Volleyball – Instagram (@aquinasvolleyball)
Saints pack the stands of Sturrus Sports and Fitness Center – photo courtesy of Aquinas College Volleyball – Instagram (@aquinasvolleyball)
Junior Alana Calhoun with The Aquinas College Dance Team performed an electric 90’s night routine – Photo by Grace Malec
The Saint 