The Bob Jones University Bruins volleyball team went the distance but came up short, falling 3-2 to Truett McConnell University in an intense five-set match at the Davis Field House on Wednesday in their home opener.
The Bruins entered today's contest 1-3 on the season following four tough games against NCAA DIII programs over the weekend.
As today's home opener got underway, Truett McConnell took the opening two sets 25-22 and 25-22, but the Bruins refused to go quietly. In a pivotal third set, BJU rallied late and edged the Bears 27-25 to keep the match alive. Feeding off that momentum, the Bruins controlled set four winning it 25-19 to force a deciding fifth.
In the final frame, both teams traded points in a back-and-forth battle. Ultimately, the Bears capitalized on a late rally to claim the set 17–15 and secure the 3-2 match win.
Hannah Goodwin led the Bruins as she tallied 21 kills while adding four service aces. Stefanie Burke also provided a strong presence at the net with nine kills and five blocks, while libero Anne Lloyd helped the defense with 13 digs. Setter Elyse Vest recorded 19 assists and 12 digs to notch a double-double.
"I am proud of the team for showing a lot of grit today," said Coach Christa Schlichting. "I think once we figured out that we could really compete with Truett McConnell, we made our adjustments and really started to push them and took control of the last two sets. We got into the fifth with that control, but we just couldn't quite keep that momentum right here at the end. They made their adjustments, and we couldn't put put the ball down when we needed to."
Schlichting continued saying, "I really like what I'm seeing on the court from our team with their effort, communication, and their desire to battle. It is very promising for our future."
Up next, the Bruins are back in the Davis Field House as they host the NCCAA South Region Kickoff tournament. On Friday, the team gets their first taste of region play against Trinity College of Jacksonville and Pensacola Christian College.
