After rallying to tie the score at 14, Herger elevated to unleash a thunderous kill that gave Harvard a 15-14 lead. Pankau followed Herger's lead by winning the match on an exclamatory solo block down the middle.
"Joe and Ed both made some terrific plays at crucial moments that helped us win the last home match of their Harvard careers," Harvard Coach Tom Wilson said. "Those are memories I hope those two carry with them for the rest of their lives."
In a similarly gritty fashion, Herger and Pankau led Harvard to a tough 3-2 marathon win on Sunday versus league rival Sacred Heart. With Pankau's 21 kills and six block assists and Herger's 19 kills and 18 digs, the Crimson was able to pull out an important win that kept Harvard alive for an EIVA playoff spot.
What is truly impressive though, is the level of mutual respect between Herger and Pankau.
"Joe is one of the best players in the east, and the team is sorely going to miss him," Pankau said.
"Ed is definitely the best player on the team," Herger said. "I have truly enjoyed playing with him for all four years."
Aside from missing each other, both Herger and Pankau will be sorely missed by the men's volleyball program. As they say "aloha" to Harvard, they can rest assured that they saved their best performances for last.