Sherman, Texas - The Austin College volleyball team extended its undefeated start to the season on Friday, securing a pair of victories at Hughey Gym. The 'Roos swept Lyon College in straight sets before overpowering Belhaven University in a four-set nightcap, improving their overall record to 4-0.
The 'Roos opened the evening with a commanding 3-0 victory over Lyon, winning by set scores of 25-15, 25-18, and 25-12. Austin College controlled the net entirely, amassing 10 total blocks and holding the visitors to a -.010 hitting percentage. Offensively, the 'Roos hit .284 as a unit, highlighted by a .333 attacking clip in the final frame.
Victoria Larson led the Austin College attack with 10 kills and three blocks. Caroline Smith was highly efficient, putting down nine kills on a .412 hitting percentage, while Madisin Hartsfield was a defensive force at the net, registering a team-high eight blocks alongside eight kills on a .375 hitting percentage. The offense was directed by Katie Riemer, who dished out 21 assists, with Elizabeth Oh adding 10. In the back row, Laynie Kovacs tallied a match-best 23 digs as she surpassed 2,000 digs in her career, and Abby Sadler created consistent pressure from the service line with four aces.
In the late match, Austin College faced a tougher test but ultimately defeated Belhaven 3-1, taking the match with set scores of 25-18, 15-25, 25-21, and 25-14. After dropping the second set, the 'Roos rebounded by relying heavily on their service game and formidable blocking. The team combined for 12 service aces and 11 total blocks to stymie Belhaven's momentum.
Hartsfield continued her strong Friday performance with a team-high 12 kills on a .400 hitting percentage, adding five blocks. Mia Johnson notched a double-double, recording 11 kills and 11 digs, while Larson chipped in seven kills and four blocks. Sadler anchored the serving clinic with five aces, and Riemer managed the offense with 20 assists. Defensively, Kovacs collected another 19 digs to help secure the victory.
photos by Allen Rich
