Perfect weather typically makes for a perfect outing on Mackinac Island, one of Michigan's premier tourist destinations. But on Friday, the action moved indoors, as the Mackinac Island Public School Gym took center stage. A capacity crowd packed in for the main event, as Lake Superior State University met the University of Michigan in the first Matches on the Mack exhibition.

With an estimated 300 in attendance, the Lakers battled the Wolverines across three sets.

"It was exciting," said Laker head coach Eric Snyder. "The atmosphere was electric. Tiny little gym on Mackinac Island. What a great experience for both teams. A very talented Michigan team we battled."

Though the Wolverines won the exhibition in straight sets, the Lakers fed off the gym's energy in a competitive match. Lake Superior State consistently drew intense reactions from a very engaged crowd and was clearly the gym's favorite.

"It was great," said Snyder. They were engaged, they were yelling and screaming, and the girls really fed off of it. Michigan, as much as they're a phenomenal team, they had a tough time a little bit on occasion. We fought. Scrappy. The crowd was a huge part of that."

Redshirt Junior Faith White impressed for Lake Superior. Snyder felt her presence was a massive boost for the team. He said, "She's a Sault Ste. Marie kid. She's local. She's amazing. One of the best teammates you can have and she works really hard."

Freshman Caitlyn Matelski starred for the Lakers off the bench, too. "She got out there and is touching really high, and she gave them some problems," said Snyder.

The matchup between the Lakers and the Wolverines saw a star-studded group of attendees, including Lake Superior State University President Dr. David Travis and Michigan State Representative Parker Fairbairn.

"One of the things I want to do as president is make sure that the identity of our great institution spreads," said Dr. Travis. "Not just across Michigan, but all over the United States. The first step is getting our athletics teams out there and showcasing what we do both at Lake State and with our athletics."

The importance of a showcase exhibition against the Wolverines at one of Michigan's marquee travel destinations greatly appealed to Laker student-athletes, coaches, fans, and staff.

"We appreciate the University of Michigan making the trip to Mackinac Island to compete this weekend and grow the game of women's volleyball," said Laker Athletics Director Tory Lindley. "We're thankful for coach Erin Virtue's willingness to partner with in-state schools and build great events and memories for student-athletes and fans."

Lindley also praised Mackinac Island Public School Athletics Director Christina Alexander, who played a key role in building Matches on the Mack. "Her leadership at the school has been tremendous. What a fantastic partner to grow both of our Laker brands with, and we're looking forward to more in the future."

The Lakers open the regular season with three matches across two days at the Illinois-Springfield Tournament, September 5^th and 6^th. They play Kentucky Wesleyan and the hosts, UIS on the 5^th, before taking on Quincy on the 6^th. Lake Superior State remains on the road throughout September, then debuts at Sault Ste. Marie's Bud Cooper Gymnasium against U.P. rivals Michigan Tech and Northern Michigan on October 3^rd and 4^th. Buy your tickets at LSSULakers.com or at the Laker box office.