October 28, 2009 - The Saturday bye day is always a welcome part of a GLIAC volleyball schedule. The Hillsdale College volleyball team is hoping it can celebrate its off day this coming Saturday with a GLIAC South Division championship.

That is what awaits the Chargers if they can defeat the University of Findlay in their match Friday night in Ohio. Match time is 7:30 p.m.

Hillsdale has defeated Findlay eight times in a row, dating back to October 2005. Earlier this season, the Chargers swept the Oilers 3-0 in Hillsdale's home opener Sept. 15.

The volleyball team has struggled recently, losing three of its past four matches. AFter a decisive 3-0 home win over Tiffin last Friday night, Hillsdale lost to Ashland 3-1 Saturday afternoon, postponing a potential division title celebration. Saturdays have been troubling days for the Chargers, as four of their six losses have occured on that day.

Hillsdale (18-6, 10-3) is ranked just outisde the AVCA Division II top 25 poll this week, after being ranked in each of the past two weeks.

This could be a very different Findlay team the Chargers are facing Friday night. The Oilers (11-17, 3-10) were hit hard with injuries through most of the season. But the team is returning to health, and has good size and blocking ability when healthy.

Hillsdale previously won South Division titles in 2006 and 2007 before falling to third place in the division last year.

Hillsdale has already clinched hosting a first round GLIAC Tournament match on Wednesday, Nov. 11. The opponent has yet to be determined, and likely won't be, until completion of play in the regular season on Saturday, Nov. 7.