Women’s Volleyball streak ends in tough weekend

Coming into the Castle Point Challenge this weekend, Coach Brianna Jones and her squad were red hot, winning their first eight games. Despite an absolutely electric atmosphere, Friday night proved tough for the Ducks; however, as they dropped three out of four (25-12, 25-19, 19-25, 25-23) to Clarkson University, in spite of an incredible showing from Stevens senior Libero Elizabeth Chu and her 20 digs. Sara Galante led the Clarkson Golden Knights with 14 kills, although the Ducks ultimately ended with 5 more total kills (45-40) than the Knights. 

Saturday marked the second and final day of the Castle Point Challenge, with the Ducks slated to begin their day against Stockton University. Despite the early start time, the gym was again buzzing with energy, both from the stands and the sidelines. Behind a game-leading 13 kills from sophomore Outsider Hitter Liz Patterson, the Ducks swept Stockton 3-0 (22-25, 29-31, 25-21). Also notching double-digit kills for the Ducks was Stevens sophomore Elizabeth Maggio with 11. As a team, the Ducks recorded 7 more kills than Stockton (45-38) and registered 5 more aces (7-2). 

The second game of the day saw the Ducks take a tough 3-1 loss to The University of Scranton (18-25, 25-23, 26-24, 25-21). In spite of the loss, the Ducks led in every statistical category aside from aces (7 compared to Scranton’s 8). Scranton athlete Caleigh Cox put together a strong showing for the Royals, collecting 37 assists, while Maggio led the Ducks with 14 kills and Chu notched an electric 27 digs. 

Despite the difficult nature of the weekend, the Ducks remained strong, energized, and together. The bench constantly provided energy and support, with Stevens sophomore Madison Sappia serving as a vocal leader and spark plug on the court and the sideline. 

The Ducks look to rebound Wednesday, September 22, against King’s College (PA) before taking an extended road trip before returning home on October 20.