The MacEwan University Griffins began their Canada West debut with momentum, but were unable to maintain their forward progress, dropping the match 3-1 (25-22, 18-25, 13-25, 16-25) to the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds.

With the Griffins winning the first set 25-22, both teams appeared anxious to get the season started on the right foot. But, it was the Griffins who managed to pull away in the opener on the strength of Marcus Ernewein's six kills, consistent serving and timely defense. Ben Chow was the go-to option for the Birds early and often, marking several notable kills from both the front and back row positions.

The Thunderbirds pulled even winning the second set 25-18 as UBC setter Milan Nikic found his stride, distributing the ball in a well-balanced attack that would continue throughout the night. 

Unable to regain the first set traction they began with, the Griffins would play second fiddle to the visitors in sets three and four in the season opening loss.

Ernewein for the Griffins, and Nikic for the Thunderbirds, were named their team's respective players of the game.

The Griffins and Thunderbirds return to the court Saturday to complete the weekend series with the first whistle scheduled for 7:00 p.m. (MT) at MacEwan University in Edmonton, Alberta.