The University of the Cumberlands (UC) Patriot Volleyball program was excited to begin the 2012 season as Cincinnati Christian University (CCU) came to Williamsburg to open up the year this past weekend.  Saturday did not play out as the Patriots wanted though as CCU came in and played very well without making many mistakes and came away with a 3-0 victory over UC. 

Game one was very exciting as the score bounced back and forth for both teams.  The Patriots were in control at a score of 24-22, but some untimely errors by UC combined with some flawless play by CCU gave the Eagles the victory in game one by a score of 31-33.  Unfortunately, the Patriots could not get any momentum going after the first game as the Eagles then swept UC in the final two games by scores of 15-25 and 19-25 to take a 3-0 win. 

The Patriot ladies unfortunately accumulated a few too many errors early that set them back, but the ladies did see some bright spots throughout the match.  Mariah Gray (Goshen, OH) led the team on the day with 7 kills. Abby Dundon (Lexington, KY) also pitched in her fair share with 10 assists.  Seniors Chelsea Hendrix (Seymour, IN) and Kelsey Dew (Clinton, TN) both finished the day with 10 defensive digs while sophomore Kaitlyn Brown (Alexandria, KY) followed close behind with 9 digs of her own.

The Patriots will be back in action on Tuesday August 28^th as they take on local rival Union College in Williamsburg.  Match time is set for 7:00 pm.  

For more information on the Patriots Volleyball program along with other Patriot athletics, please visit www.cumberlandspatriots.com.

Article Provided by Alyssa Burke, University of the Cumberlands Multimedia & Athletic Services Graduate Assistant