Northville boys volleyball team upends Canton in regional semis

 Northville boys volleyball team upends Canton in regional semis

Northville’s Julian Janisse crushes a swing Tuesday against Canton.

Canton’s boys volleyball team hung tough with state-ranked Northville in Tuesday’s MHSAA Division 1 regional semifinal on the Mustangs’ court, staying within striking distance throughout the three-set match.

The Mustangs proved to have a little too much firepower, however, winning in straight sets, 25-20, 25-22, 25-23. Northville advances to Thursday’s regional final against Saline, which defeated Wixom Catholic Central, 3-1.

Balanced rosters

Northville received significant contributions from a number of players, including Julian Janisse, Jude Butler, Adam Piao and Yuta Kikumori, whose modest height didn’t prevent him from elevating and crushing multiple big-time kills.

As it was all season, Canton was led by Connor Dickison, Emerson Abbott and Cain Koche, all of whom brought club volleyball experience into their first season competing for the Cobras.

Volleyball player in orange jersey leaps to strike a ball in a gym, with orange bleachers, an American flag, and wall banners in the background
Adam Piao unleashes a serve

Two players in orange uniforms scramble for a basketball on a gym floor, one with his back to the camera wearing jersey #12 as teammates and spectators look on in the background and orange bleachers rise on the right side.

Yuta Kikumori passes the ball

Ed Wright

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