Bluefield, Va. – The Bluefield University men's volleyball team hit the road for a three-game conference stretch in Florida, facing off against St. Thomas University, Webber International, and Warner University. Despite early setbacks, the Rams capped off the trip with a thrilling five-set victory, showing resilience, grit, and plenty of promise as they continue their strong conference campaign.
Game 1: St. Thomas 3, Bluefield 0
The road trip began in Miami Gardens, where the Rams squared off against the nationally ranked St. Thomas Bobcats. Bluefield came out swinging in the first set, posting a respectable .241 hitting percentage behind strong play from Mason Lloyd (10 kills) and Kemani Riley (5 kills). However, the Bobcats' efficiency proved too much, as they hit .366 overall and took the match in straight sets.
Team Leaders:
Despite the 3-0 result, the Rams battled throughout and showed flashes of elite play, particularly on defense and in-service pressure.
Game 2: Webber International 3, Bluefield 0
In Babson Park, Bluefield took on a tough Webber International squad. The Warriors came in with momentum and delivered, winning 25-20, 25-16, 25-21. Bluefield fought in every set but couldn't overcome Webber's offensive firepower and defensive presence at the net.
Mason Lloyd once again led the charge with 12 kills and 4 aces, while Benedict Somes set the offense with 21 assists. Defensively, General Smith and Kyle Pietrzak contributed 2 blocks each.
Though it was another 3-0 loss, the Rams showed growth in their execution and adjusted well to pressure late in the match, signs of the resilience that would pay off in Game 3.
Game 3: Bluefield 3, Warner 2
Bluefield closed the trip with a nail-biting five-set win over Warner University, displaying heart and hustle in a back-and-forth battle (21-25, 25-20, 23-25, 25-19, 15-11). After falling behind 2-1, the Rams rallied in the fourth and fifth sets behind dominant performances from veterans and emerging stars alike.
Mason Lloyd continued his hot streak, hammering 17 kills and picking up 4 aces, while Dakarai Williams made a major impact with 15 kills on the outside. Setter Benedict Somes orchestrated the offense with 40 assists and 7 digs. On defense, Colby Mutter and Lloyd each posted 9 digs, anchoring a strong back-row effort.
The Rams also racked up 15 aces as a team—highlighted by Somes (5) and Lloyd (4)—and came through in the clutch during the decisive fifth set with clean passing and tough serving.
Looking Ahead
Bluefield wraps up the Florida trip and looks to return back to their home court. They will play this coming Wednesday at home vs. Regent University. This game will also be their senior night and will start at 4 pm.
