NEED TO KNOW
Score: William Carey 3, Life 0
MARIETTA, Ga. — The Life University women's volleyball team celebrated Senior Day inside the Upper Gym Friday night, honoring its upperclassmen before falling to William Carey in straight sets, 25–15, 25–20, 25–10. Despite a competitive second frame and strong stretches on both sides of the ball, the Running Eagles couldn't overcome the Crusaders' balanced attack and front-line presence.
William Carey jumped out to an early lead in the opening set, taking control with an 8–1 start behind strong serving and efficient attacks. The Running Eagles settled in midway through as Jade Watson and Katrin Hardardottir connected for kills, but the Crusaders maintained their rhythm to close out the frame 25–15.
The Running Eagles showed their fight in the second set, battling through nine ties and four lead changes. Sydney Gonzales, Erica Irby, and Hardardottir provided consistent offense, while Mia Garcia and Fabiana Cruz each delivered timely service aces to give Life U a brief 16–14 advantage. William Carey responded with a late run to edge the set 25–20 and carried that momentum into the third to finish the sweep 25–10.
INSIDE THE BOX SCORE
– The Running Eagles totaled 25 kills on -.040 hitting, while William Carey finished with 37 kills at a .232 clip.
– The Crusaders led in total blocks (10.0–5.0) and aces (4–2).
– Life recorded 37 digs and 23 assists on the night.
STANDOUT PERFORMANCES
– Jade Watson led Life with 7 kills and 2 block assists.
– Sydney Gonzales added 4 kills and 4.0 total blocks.
– Katrin Hardardottir tallied 5 kills on .176 hitting.
– Fabiana Cruz posted 11 assists, 7 digs, and an ace.
Women's volleyball concludes its regular season Saturday afternoon, hosting Loyola (New Orleans) at 12 p.m. inside the Upper Gym.