From Sept. 27, 2022

STEUBENVILLE, Oh. (Sept. 27) – Waynesburg University women’s volleyball traveled out to Steubenville, Oh. to take on Franciscan University in a non-conference matchup. 

The Yellow Jackets fell 3-0 in what may seem like a one-sided contest on paper when in reality this match was highly contested for the majority of the contest. 

Set one was the most difficult for Waynesburg, as they lost 25-11. Sets two and three, however, would be the ones where Waynesburg cut loose and threw everything they had, losing by narrow margins of 25-23 and 25-22 respectively.

“After that first set we changed our mindset and worked to take some of the pressure off ourselves,” Waynesburg head coach Emily Grossman said. “We’ve got nothing to lose right now so we might as well show up and make the most of every play by leaving it all out there for every ball.” 

Grossman further commented on the evidence she has seen that makes her know Waynesburg can compete with the best teams in the conference, and to reach that expectation simply comes down to finding, “more consistency.”

Despite the loss that the Jackets faced, they were left with several standout performances on the evening, with two notable ones coming from senior Kayla Stohon, who led both teams in blocks with six, as well as freshman Riley Ruffley, who lead Waynesburg in assists with 19 and twelve digs as well.

“We’re trying to focus on playing more selfless,” Grossman said. “I am trying to drive home the need to better the ball. If someone is stepping up and doing their job on defense then we need to make an adjustment and step up even more to find the floor on offense. [Stohon] has made some great adjustments thus far and she’s upping her game every day.”

When asked about her expectations and reaction to the performance of Ruffley, her confidence did not weigh, as Grossman spoke about how high of a standard she has placed on Ruffley. 

“She’s got a solid volleyball IQ when it comes to running the offense and reading the opposing defense,” Grossman said. “I knew she was up for the challenge.” 

Volleyball is back in action Thursday, Sept. 29, as they begin their eleven-game stretch of PAC competition tonight against Washington & Jefferson. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 pm.