Michigan's two peninsulas come together for a pair of college volleyball matches on Mackinac Island this weekend, as the Lake Superior State Lakers host Michigan in a Friday showcase, and Northern Michigan plays Central Michigan on Saturday.

The Lakers, led by first-year head coach Eric Snyder, wrap up their first week of preseason with a match against Michigan. Snyder said his team can't wait to get to the island, compete and enjoy one of the state's marquee destinations. "It's a great experience. I hope the girls really enjoy their time on the island, enjoy playing against a great opponent, playing with each other and enjoying their time together."

Ahead of his first match on the sideline, Snyder likes what he's seen from this Laker squad. Returning middle hitter Morgan Deming has dominated near the net in the GLIAC, highlighted by a 10-block outing against Roosevelt last September. Outside hitter and defensive specialist Gia Waters brings attacking intent from the back, while senior outside hitter Valeriya Varnakova can change games with her vertical ability. Setters Vanessa Swerdon and Avery Headworth spray passes across the floor for the Lakers, with Headworth providing some attacking prowess, too. She hit at 35.9% last year for LSSU in 53 sets played.

For any first-year head coach, the first season brings unique challenges. Players have to learn new systems, terminology and roles. Snyder pointed out that the team also brought in five new players. But, less than a week into preseason, he described the early returns as "solid."

"They've been great," Snyder said about his team. "They've been accommodating, they've been hard-working. They've been everything that a coach asks for. They've enjoyed playing together, supporting each other."

Lake Superior State meets Michigan at Mackinac Island Public School – a smaller gym where fans get up close to the action. About 200 tickets were available, and a strong turnout at one of Michigan's premier tourist destinations is anticipated. Expect a top-rate college atmosphere as both teams tune up for the regular season.

"It's an opportunity to have a great experience on Mackinac Island," said Snyder. "I think it's great for the program, great for the university, great for the athletics department to boost up the knowledge and the appearance of a great opponent. Show that Lake State is a great place go to school, a great place to play as a student-athlete and a great experience to come into as a student."
 
After competing against the Wolverines at the first annual Matches on the Mack, LSSU competes exclusively on the road through September. The Lakers play their first official home matches of the season in early October against U.P. rivals. Friday, October 3^rd, the Lakers host Michigan Tech at the Bud Cooper Gymnasium in Sault Ste. Marie. They play Northern Michigan Saturday, October 4^th. Buy your tickets online or at the Laker box office.