Bluefield, VA – The Bluefield University Women's Volleyball team delivered an exhilarating performance in their home opener and first conference match of the season, sweeping the Milligan University Buffaloes 3-0. Despite Milligan's high preseason ranking at 4th, the Rams made a powerful statement with set scores of 25-17, 25-23, and 25-22.
The Rams ignited the crowd with a dominant start, taking the first set 25-17. Their energy and precision were palpable, setting the tone for the evening. The second set proved to be a tougher contest, with both teams exchanging points in a gripping battle. Joslyn Evans stepped up with a decisive kill that thrilled the packed gym, securing the set 25-23 and giving Bluefield a 2-0 lead.
As the match moved to the third set, the intensity only heightened. Milligan fought hard to stay in the game, making the set a nail-biter. However, Bluefield's resilience shone through, and Abbey Boehm's crucial ace clinched the set 25-22.
The Rams' offense was particularly impressive, led by Cylie-Ann Wong with 10 kills. She was well-supported by Joslyn Evans and Davina Lopez, each with 9 kills, and Liangelys Santana, who added 8 kills. Nayerly Jimenez played a pivotal role with 35 assists.
Defensively, Bluefield University was equally strong. Georgia Lewis led with 18 digs, while Nayerly Jimenez and Eledy Torres contributed 11 and 10 digs, respectively. Eledy Torres and Abbey Boehm made significant impacts behind the service line, each serving up 3 aces that further disrupted Milligan's play.
Head Coach Buddy Gallemore expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, saying, "It's always good to start off conference play with a win. I thought that we played 3 complete sets tonight. We came in focused and executed what we had planned. We know Milligan is a well-coached team and we had to play a complete match. And when you have 4 different players with at least 8 kills, it's tough for your opponent to key in on just one person. That also says a lot about our setter and the trust that she has in her attackers."
Looking ahead, Coach Gallemore noted the quick turnaround for the team, saying, "But it's a quick turnaround because we have to be ready for a good Bryan team on Saturday morning. But now the ladies have to carry that confidence and execution on the road."
The Rams are set to play two matches this Saturday, September 14th. They will first face Bryan College at 11 a.m., followed by a match against Spartanburg Methodist Church at 1 p.m. Both games will test the Rams' momentum as they continue their season.
