SPARTANBURG, S.C.- The Shorter volleyball team's season came to a close Tuesday night against the two-seed Converse Valkyries, falling in straight sets (23-25, 24-26, 13-25) at the Weisiger Center.
The opening set was close from start to finish, as neither team was able to extend their lead. Late in the set, the hosts were able to build a small lead, but would be met by a strong comeback effort by the Hawks. After a kill from Emly Drier put the Hawks within one, the Valkyries were able to close out the set on a kill of their own as they took the 1-0 lead.
The Hawks continued to fight hard as the second set began, trading leads with the Valkyries as it dwindled down. Shorter continued to battle, finally creating separation by taking a 15-12 lead at the midway mark after back-to-back kills from
Taylor-Reese Howell. Converse stormed back, regaining the lead as the Hawks continued to create pressure. With both teams battling, the Hawks were able to force the hosts to go the distance, but Converse prevailed by scoring two straight to take the 2-0 lead.
Shorter's offense cooled down in the third set, as the hosts took full advantage by going on a 10-4 run. The Hawks fought hard, but could not crawl out of the deficit, as they fell in straight sets.
Ava Medina performed well in her final match as a Hawk, recording eight kills and 8.5 points.
Taylor-Reese Howell and
Caroline Sivills each finished with six kills to close out their Shorter career as
Brielle Wood facilitated with 15 assists.
The Hawks conclude their 2026 season having achieved many accomplishments while surpassing expectations in a major way.
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