ROME, Ga. — On Saturday, the Shorter Hawks volleyball team delivered a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Chowan University at the Winthrop-King Centre in Rome, Georgia. The set scores were 25-23, 19-25, 25-22, and 25-17. The win improved Shorter's record to 9-8 overall and 4-2 in Conference Carolinas play, while Chowan dropped to 3-13 (1-8 in the conference).

Shorter's offense was spearheaded by Victoria Sparks, who registered a match-high 17 kills on 50 swings, hitting .240 and contributing 20.5 points. Emily Crocker added a strong presence at the net with 10 kills and a block assist, tallying 11.5 points. Audrey Brooks chipped in with 5 kills and 3 block assists for 7.5 points.

Defensively, libero Claudia Loyola showcased her skill in the backcourt, leading all players with 27 digs to neutralize Chowan's offensive threats. The Hawks' offense was effectively orchestrated by setters Brielle Wood and Marysa Ocampo, who tallied 17 and 14 assists, respectively. Ocampo also added 12 digs to her versatile performance.

Shorter's serving game was pivotal in the match, as the team recorded 10 service aces. Reilly Swierbut and Sparks contributed two aces each, keeping Chowan's serve-receive under pressure. At the net, Shorter out-blocked Chowan 8-6, with significant contributions from Crocker and Alexis Williams, who helped control the net and disrupt Chowan's attack.

Chowan's efforts were most notable in the second set, where they capitalized on Shorter's errors and executed efficiently to secure a 25-19 win. Both teams struggled to find offensive rhythm at times, with identical hitting percentages of .056 (Shorter: 44 kills on 198 attempts, Chowan: 39 kills on 195 attempts).

Despite the tight margins in the first and third sets, characterized by multiple ties and lead changes, the Hawks' composure and timely execution allowed them to prevail in the crucial moments. Shorter closed out the match in commanding fashion, winning the fourth set 25-17 behind aggressive serving and improved offensive execution.

With this victory, the Hawks continue to build momentum as they navigate the competitive Conference Carolinas schedule.

NEXT UP: The Hawks will take on the Erskine Flying Fleet at home for the final game of their four game home stand on Tuesday at 6:00PM