Vulcans Lose Grant for PacWest Doubleheader

Star libero injures shoulder before weekend contests against Chaminade and Hawaiʻi Pacific

Editor-in-Chief Peter Holden Chao

Photo Courtesy of UH Hilo Athletics

Senior starter and PacWest Preseason Libero of the Year Mina Grant was injured in the Vulcans home match against Holy Names University on Oct. 1. Grant dove for the ball in the final set and came up noticeably in pain. She was immediately subbed out for junior libero Kaila Lizama.

Grant has been a vital asset in the Vulcan’s defensive success this year leading the team with 247 digs. She has also been on the court for all 51 sets played this year; a key contributor to the Vulcan’s 5 game win streak, 11-3 overall record, and 7-1 record in the PacWest.

The Vulcans sit at second in the conference entering the weekend, but strong opponents Chaminade and Hawaiʻi Pacific visit the UH Hilo Gymnasium for 7 p.m. games Saturday and Sunday respectively. Grant will not play in either contest. The Vulcans then meet third place Biola on Friday Oct. 12.

Grant told Ke Kalahea that her shoulder was dislocated but has already been seen out of her sling and is confident in the healing process. In the meantime, Lizama will assume the role as libero as the Vulcans continue to fight to maintain their position at the top of the PacWest.