By Kennedy Choo

For the first time in Hawai‘i, the University of Hawai‘i Rainbow Warrior men’s volleyball team hosted a doubleheader, defeating Division II opponents Roberts Wesleyan University Redhawks (25-21, 25-17, 25-16) and Rockhurst University Hawks (25-21, 25-19, 23-25, 25-13).

The Rainbow Warriors started the doubleheader at 11 a.m. against the Redhawks, rolling out a lineup of underclassmen led by sophomore outside hitter Kainoa Wade, who turned in a career-high 21 kills and five digs on a .514 hitting percentage.

Though Hawai‘i (5-1)  came out of the gates slow, the ‘Bows were able to secure the sweep over Roberts Wesleyan (2-1).

“It’s good to be out here, put on for the state, and put on a show for everybody,” Wade said.

With his 21 kills, Wade nearly matched Roberts Wesleyan’s offensive output across three sets, as the Redhawks totaled just 28 kills.

Along with Wade, freshman setter Magnus Hettervik got the start at setter in game one, posting 22 assists and six digs, second-most on the team.

“It’s really important for the setter to dig well and put in the ball so we can be in a good position even when I’m not setting,” Hettervik said. “I think I did a good job on that.”

After an eight-hour break, the Rainbow Warriors took to the teraflex once more, taking on the Rockhurst Hawks (1-3). This time with starters on the floor.

Like the morning match, Hawai‘i came out flat, winning the first two sets 25-21 and 25-19 before dropping set three to Rockhurst, 25-23. Unlike the reserves earlier in the day, the starters surrendered a set to the Division II opponent.

The Rainbow Warriors responded, however, cruising to a decisive 25-13 win in set four behind a career night from sophomore outside hitter Adrien Roure, who finished with 15 kills, five aces, seven digs, and a block.

Sophomore outside hitter Kristian Titriyski also added 15 kills, along with six digs and three blocks, helping seal the win in the fourth set.

Hawai‘i will face Rockhurst and Roberts Wesleyan once again with another doubleheader scheduled for Friday at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. at the Bank of Hawai‘i Arena at the Stan Sheriff Center.