The Roberts Wesleyan women's volleyball team took to the VAC floor for the first time this season on
Wednesday night. The visiting Highlanders of Houghton College joined the Raiders for an AMC match up. The Raiders were able to complete the three set sweep, 25-17, 25-19, 25-18, and are now 12-7 this year in matches that have been decided in just three sets. Roberts improves their overall record to 21-13 (4-5), and Houghton falls to 12-16 (2-6).
The highly anticipated opening event in the newly renovated Voller Athletic Center lived up to its billing. Students, faculty, family, and fans came out to see the new gym, and enjoy the volleyball match. Among those in attendance were the school's president, Dr. John Martin, the provost Bob Zwier, and the Athletic Director
Mike Faro. Roberts jumped out to an early lead in both the first and the second sets. The Raiders opened up a 20-12 lead in the first set, trading points to finish it off at 25-17. In the second set, Roberts was able to hold a comfortable lead again. Strong defense from the entire team led to transition kills from each attacker.
Between sets two and three, the fans had a chance to test their luck at the service line. During the ten minute intermission, Raider fans and students crammed the court to serve at free Raider Volleyball t-shirts, as well as five targets for free candy. After five minutes of serving mayhem, three students walked away with Raider colors and several more with a free snack.
Roberts lost some momentum coming back out onto the court for the third set. Houghton set up several blocks at the net and jumped out to an early 8-14 lead. The Raiders were able to settle down, control the ball, and complete the comeback, winning 25-18. “It was an exciting way to end our first home match,” commented Coach Kirsten Meyers. “We knew we had great momentum after the second set, but Houghton played a great start to the third. Their block was closed and we had trouble finding the holes.” Better ball control has been a key to all 21 of the Raider victories this year. “What changed during the comeback was better passing and better defense,” Coach Jon Meyers said. “A great offense has to start with a good first touch. Once we were able to put together some ball control, our offense followed suit.”
Statistical leaders for the Raiders included both outside hitters, Corey Phillips (Reno, NV) and Alexa Antoni (Rancho Cucamonga, CA). Corey and Alexa each notched 10 kills on the night. Seniors Mandie Bartz (Attica, NY) and Stacey Tiffin (Sherrill, NY) were able to add 5 and 6 kills, along with 3 blocks each. Freshman setter Rachel Herrock (Claremont, CA) dished out 31 assists.
The Raiders complete their regular season with their last home match against Point Park University. The match is scheduled for Saturday, November 6
th at 11:00 AM. Following the match with Point Park, the men's and women's basketball teams will be starting their season off with home matches later in the day. Come support your Raiders!
