BRONXVILLE, N.Y. – Sarah Lawrence College fell 3-0 to the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) on October 22, 2024, with set scores of 25-20, 25-16, and 25-14. Despite the Gryphons' determined efforts, USMMA's balanced offensive attack and effective serving kept Sarah Lawrence on the defensive throughout the match. Tuesday's loss broke SLC's seven match winning streak which had propelled them into second place in the Skyline standings.

Notable Performers

• Athena Kazos earned another double-double with 11 kills and 13 digs in addition to four aces
• Valerie Hertig totaled 19 assists while also sprinkling in a pair of aces
• Nikolet Vataj had seven kills and eight digs for SLC

How it Happened

In the first set, the Gryphons showed resilience, keeping the score tight and trading points with USMMA. However, the Mariners capitalized on key errors and maintained their momentum to take the set 25-20. Georgi Massey and Nikolet Vataj provided crucial kills for Sarah Lawrence, but USMMA's consistent pressure made the difference. The second set saw the Gryphons attempt to close the gap, but USMMA pulled ahead early with strong serves and a solid defensive performance. Vataj led Sarah Lawrence's efforts at the net, supported by setter Valerie Hertig, who distributed the ball well. However, the Mariners' attack proved too strong, as they secured the set 25-16. In the third and final set, Sarah Lawrence struggled to keep pace with USMMA's relentless offense. The Gryphons fought to stay in contention, but USMMA's front-row dominance and strategic serving runs helped them clinch the set 25-14, sealing the match.

Up Next

The Gryphons (15-6, Skyline 6-2) will travel northward to Mount Saint Mary College on Saturday, October 26th for another Skyline matchup. The Gryphons will look to rebound from Tuesday's loss and return