Euts pick up first win in Brescia Classic split

OWENSBORO, KY - The University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy Women's Volleyball team earned their first win of the 2024 season in commanding fashion, sweeping Wilberforce University 3-0 in their first match at the Brescia Classic. The Eutectics' balanced attack and solid defense were on full display, as they controlled the match from start to finish, earning set victories of 25-23, 25-20, and 25-16. UHSP followed that up with a straight set loss to Bethel University, 25-16, 25-17, 25-22 to finish out the day.

In the opening match, UHSP set the tone with a gritty 25-23 win. Despite a close scoreline, the Eutectics displayed composure under pressure, capitalizing on Wilberforce's errors and maintaining a steady offensive rhythm. UHSP's attack was led by an eight-kill performance in the first set, though they had to overcome some early challenges, hitting just .023 as a team.

The Eutectics found their stride in the second set, dominating with a 25-20 victory. This set saw UHSP post a .256 attack percentage with 17 kills and just six errors on 43 attempts. Tera Schumacher led the Eutectics' offensive charge with a match-high 14 kills. She was instrumental in the second set, where she recorded 6 of her 14 kills, helping UHSP to their most efficient set of the match. The team's improved coordination and net play put Wilberforce on the defensive, and the Bulldogs struggled to keep pace.

By the third set, UHSP was in full control, closing out the match with a decisive 25-16 win. The Eutectics continued to apply pressure with their consistent serving and solid defense, limiting Wilberforce to their lowest score of the match. The Bulldogs' attack faltered, resulting in a meager .083 hitting percentage for the set.

Throughout the match, UHSP's balanced team effort was evident. Key contributions came from multiple players, reflecting a well-rounded and cohesive unit. The Eutectics' defense also played a critical role, as they forced Wilberforce into 16 total attack errors and capitalized on their mistakes.

As the season progresses, UHSP's mix of offensive firepower and defensive tenacity will be key factors in their pursuit of a successful campaign. Friday's match was a promising sign of what the team is capable of achieving.

Jenna Brinson had a remarkable game orchestrating the UHSP offense with precision, dishing out 27 assists. She kept the Bulldogs' defense guessing with a mix of quick sets and well-timed dumps, adding two kills to her stat line. Brinson also was a defensive standout, leading the team with 17 digs. Her tenacity in the back row prevented several of Wilberforce's attacks from landing, turning potential kills into extended rallies for the Eutectics. She also was a key contributor from the service line, delivering 4 aces that disrupted Wilberforce's serve receive. Her serving run in the third set helped UHSP pull away and secure the final set. Macy Hendrix added 15 digs in the win.

In the nightcap, Bethel came out strong in the first set, establishing their dominance early with a well-rounded attack. The Wildcats recorded 15 kills on 34 attempts, hitting an impressive .324. UHSP struggled to find their rhythm offensively, managing only 6 kills against 4 errors on 27 attempts for a .074 hitting percentage. Bethel's front row was particularly effective, shutting down UHSP's attempts to gain momentum. The Eutectics fell behind early and could not close the gap, leading to a 25-16 loss in the opening set.

The second set saw Bethel maintain their strong form, hitting .364 with 14 kills on 33 attempts. UHSP showed improvement, increasing their hitting percentage to .133 with 7 kills on 30 attempts, but it was not enough to keep pace with the Wildcats. Bethel's consistent serving and effective blocking kept the Eutectics on the defensive. Despite UHSP's efforts to stay close, Bethel gradually pulled away, securing the second set 25-17.

The third set was the most competitive of the match, with UHSP putting up a valiant fight. The Eutectics recorded 11 kills on 51 attempts but were hampered by 9 errors, resulting in a .039 hitting percentage. Bethel's hitting percentage dropped to .143 in this set as UHSP's defense tightened, but the Wildcats were able to capitalize on key points to edge out the Eutectics. UHSP held a 22-18 lead in the third after a Jenna Brinson kill, but the Cats scored the final seven points to close out the match, with five of those points coming off UHSP hitting errors.

Tera Schumacher was the top scorer for the Eutectics for the second straight match of the day with seven kills, including three in the third set where she nearly helped UHSP force a fourth set. Brinson led the team with 20 assists, orchestrating the offense and trying to find holes in Bethel's defense. She and Macy Hendrix also turned in ten digs.

Dominika Skoneczna led all players with 12 kills, showcasing her dominance on the court and helping her team maintain control throughout the match. She was also a standout in defense with a team-high 19 digs, playing a pivotal role in stifling UHSP's offensive efforts. Setareh Valibeygi led with 24 assists and four service aces.

The Eutectics (1-5) have two more matches on Saturday at the Brescia Classic beginning at 11am against the tournament's host. The Wildcats and Eutectics have split their last ten meetings. UHSP then meets Oakland City at 3p to wrap up their tournament schedule.