Women's Volleyball Improves to 5-0, Best Start in Program History

CANANDAIGUA, N.Y. - The Finger Lakes Community College women's volleyball team improved to 5-0 this past weekend after earning a pair of wins against NJCAA Region III competition. Since returning from their trip downstate where the Lakers knocked off two nationally ranked opponents, the Lakers have remained undefeated in regional play. The team would make quick work of their opponents in yesterday's NJCAA Region III Pod, defeating the SUNY Adirondack Timberwolves and Hudson Valley Vikings in straight sets, 3-0.

Lakers vs. SUNY Adirondack Community College

The #4 Lakers dominated their first match of the day, 25-19, 25-11, and 25-23. Freshman Kiane Wells (Webster, N.Y./ Webster Thomas) continued her hot start to the season, leading the Lakers offensive attack in match one with 8 kills. Teammate Payton Stoddard (Bloomfield, N.Y./ Bloomfield) continued to orchestrate the team's play as she has all season with 28 assists. Stoddard not only contributed in the assist category but also in the service as she finished with 6 service aces in an impressive performance.

Freshman Bridget Miller (Seneca Falls, N.Y./ Mynderse) added 7 kills to the Lakers' offensive attack while teammate Michelina Williams (Fairport, N.Y./ Fairport) Stood tall as a defensive stalwart, recording a match-high 16 digs.

Lakers vs. Hudson Valley Community College

The Lakers displayed an overwhelming performance in match two of the day against Hudson Valley, taking the match in straight sets. For a second straight game, Kiane Wells came up big on the offensive end, delivering 8 kills on an extremely efficient .533 kill percentage. Teammate Payton Stoddard continued her role as the team's offensive backbone, recording 29 assists and adding 2 service aces in the process.

The Lakers' dynamic offensive attack was complimented by Brooke DeGroff (Castile, N.Y./ Letchworth) and Bridget Miller who added 5 and 6 kills respectively. Freshman Michelina Williams bolstered the Lakers' defense once again with a strong 8 dig performance.

The Lakers' strong performance this past weekend should secure their position in the national rankings and further support their argument for a top-3 finish in the NJCAA Division III National Rankings in week 3. The team will return to the court tomorrow Tuesday, September 5th for a 7 PM match with the Jefferson Community College Cannoneers in Watertown, N.Y.