The Case Western Reserve University volleyball team outlasted the team from Transylvania University, taking the first match of the Purple Raider Classic in five sets. The ladies went back and forth on points with the Spartans losing the first set 25-14 before they fought back for a second set victory of 25-22. The third and fourth sets brought more of the same, with the Pioneers winning the third decisively at 25-18 and the Spartans ending up back on top in the fourth set 25-20. It all came down to a fifth and final set where the Spartans got out to an early lead and didn’t give it up for the entire set, finishing ahead with a score of 16-14.

The ladies had great play both offensively and defensively from some of the supporting players on the team. Junior Natalie Southard, sophomore Haley Kauffman and freshman Kenya Moyers all delivered well on offense with 14, 13 and 10 kills, respectively, with the help of freshman Lauren Gurd who delivered 51 assists. In the backcourt, junior Jordan Genovese and freshman Kristen Mitchell contributed with 11 digs each to help the Spartans get this tough win.

The Purple Raider Classic is a two day event. Stay tuned for updates.