ANCASTER, ON – The Redeemer Royals delivered one of their most electrifying performances of the season on Saturday afternoon, defeating the OCAA West–leading St. Clair Saints 3–1 (25–22, 25–18, 21–25, 26–24) inside a packed Redeemer Athletic Centre. St. Clair entered the matchup at 12–1, riding a 12-match win streak and having surrendered just five total sets in their previous 12 contests. Redeemer, coming off an important midweek road win at Niagara and sitting at 10–4, rose to the challenge with a complete, inspired performance that firmly solidifies the Royals as one of the division's most dangerous teams.
Redeemer's offence was in peak form from the opening serve. Kate DeJong led all attackers with 15 kills on .277 hitting for a match-high 18 points. On the right side, Joelle Lammers turned in one of her best all-around performances of the year, striking for 10 kills on a blistering .474 efficiency while adding three solo blocks for 14 points. Avery Surette was dynamic across the floor, contributing 11 kills and 13 digs, while veteran middle Alanna Heidbuurt added 10 kills on .290 hitting to round out a balanced and relentless Royals attack. Setter Alana DeJong commanded the offence with exceptional poise, distributing 43 assists and collecting 14 digs as Redeemer kept St. Clair under pressure all afternoon.
Defensively, the Royals were equally impressive. Redeemer out-dug the Saints 95–92 and made its presence felt at the net with nine total blocks. Lammers and middle Claire Heide each recorded three solo blocks, helping steer momentum during pivotal stretches. The Royals' ability to extend rallies, win first contact, and remain composed in high-pressure moments proved decisive, especially in the dramatic fourth set, where Redeemer closed out the match 26–24 to ignite the home crowd.
The night also carried special significance as the Royals honoured graduating athletes Avery Surette, Joelle Lammers, and Alanna Heidbuurt during Senior Night. All three were central to the victory, showcasing the leadership, stability, and competitive standard they have invested into building the Royals Women's Volleyball program into an OCAA force.
With two outstanding performances this week, Redeemer now heads into the final stretch of the regular season with championship-level momentum and belief. The Royals will look to continue their rise in the standings as they travel to face the Conestoga Condors on Friday, February 6 at 6:00 p.m.
Don't miss a moment of the action as Redeemer pushes toward the postseason.
