Score: Life 3, Rio Grande 1
Records: Life (1-1); Rio Grande (0-2)
MARIETTA, Ga. – The Life University men's volleyball team secured their first victory of the season in a thrilling 3-1 win over Rio Grande on Friday afternoon. The Running Eagles earned set scores of 25-19, 25-17, 20-25, and 25-22.
Life University came out strong in the opening set, with their offense clicking early. Led by setter Carlos Stadtlober, who recorded 35 assists on the day, the Running Eagles posted 12 kills in the first set with a .207 hitting percentage. Vincent Eisinga led the charge with several key kills and a match-best .526 hitting percentage. The defense also stood tall, with Alexis Prado collecting a team-high 18 digs to help Life claim the first set 25-19.
The momentum carried into the second set as Life's attack remained consistent. The team's serving was a highlight, with three service aces contributing to a 25-17 win. Carlos Stadtlober orchestrated the offense beautifully, distributing the ball effectively to his hitters, including Jeremy Ferreira, who tallied 8 kills and 6 blocks.
Rio Grande battled back in the third set, taking advantage of Life's dip in offensive efficiency. Despite strong defensive efforts from Jakub Kantorowicz and Ethan Bustos, the Running Eagles fell 20-25, as Rio Grande tallied 10 kills and outlasted Life in the closing points.
Life responded with grit in the fourth set, overcoming 11 ties to regain control of the match. Clutch kills from Kantorowicz, who finished with 11 on the day, and a strong blocking presence at the net helped seal the set 25-22. The defense was key in the final moments, as the Running Eagles held off a late surge from Rio Grande to close out the match.
TURNING POINT:
Life's serving in the second set, which included three aces, created momentum that carried through the match. Their ability to recover after dropping the third set showed their determination and composure.
STANDOUT PERFORMANCES:
- Life University:
- Rio Grande:
- Daniel Rivas: 12 kills, 2 blocks
- Mitch Bartecki: 28 assists
UP NEXT:
The Running Eagles will continue their season next weekend at the Rio Grande Invitational.
