COLUMBIA, SC - The CIU Rams picked up three wins in a seven-hour time frame on Saturday as they hosted Brenau University, Pensacola Christian College, and Regent University. CIU would a play single match against conference opponent Brenau University early in the day and then host Regent and Pensacola in the late afternoon and evening. The Rams would rarely trail on the scoreboard all day as they won nine out of the ten sets they played. After Saturday's matches CIU is now 17-18 overall and 6-10 in the Appalachian Athletic Conference.

How it Happened

The Rams would open the afternoon against AAC opponent Brenau University. CIU set the tone early with a 25-10 first set win. The Tigers of Brenau fought back and managed to keep the second two sets within single digits but CIU would prevail 25-17 in both sets. Graycie Michelson and Aniya Marshall were key pieces to the Ram's success. Michelson led the Rams with four aces while Marshall fought off the Tiger attack with five blocks.  

Next up on the docket for the Rams would be fellow NCCAA member Pensacola Christian. The Rams would come out on fire in the first set dominating the Eagles 25-7. However, Pensacola Christian would steal the second set 25-21 but the CIU attack would overwhelm the Eagles and the Rams would take the next two sets 25-12 and 25-22. Megan Lung and De'Asija Harden led the Rams offensively both recording double-digit kills. Jordyn St. Lous had a strong outing with three blocks, while setter Mckenzie Sanchez once again crested the forty assist mark in the match. 

The final match of the evening for the Rams came against Regent University. The Royals would seemingly take control of the first set but CIU eventually came up with the 25-21 set win. The next two sets would prove that the Royals were outmatched by the Rams and CIU would seize the second and third sets 25-16 and 25-11. Aniya Marshall would once again solidify the defense with three blocks while Graycie Michelson and Bruna Barrozo would combine for five aces. 

What Coach Haver is saying

"Of course, it's great to win three straight matches at home.  We had lots of fan support that really helped us create positive energy in the gym. We had the opportunity to run some different offensive options with our entire roster.  Several freshmen got some stats on the board, which generated lots of excitement. Freshman, Jordyn St. Louis did a nice job for us in the middle. Freshman Graycie Michaelson racked up (aces which led to our momentum. Overall, a great day, proud of these young women and their versatility."

Up Next

CIU will be back at it against St. Andrews University in AAC competition on Tuesday, October 22nd at home.