Three Represent AAC in NAIA Women's Volleyball Opening Round

ASHEVILLE, N.C. - The Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) saw three of its own participate in the NAIA Women's Volleyball National Championship Opening Round, but unfortunately, victory eluded the squads.

The NAIA Opening Round took place on Saturday at various campus sites. Two AAC squads - Bryan and Milligan - played on the road, while Reinhardt hosted Bethel (Ind.).

INDIANA WESLEYAN 3, BRYAN 0

This was the first time Bryan had made an appearance in the Opening Round since 2013. The Lions faced off against No. 7 Marian University, and the Knights dominated the Lions from the start. Bryan was swept in straight sets by scores of 12-25, 12-25, 22-25. Abby Rector led Bryan with 8 kills and a .281 hitting percentage. Shirah Foor had 13 assists and Jessica Towe finished with 8 digs.

Bryan ends the season 18-6 overall.

MISSOURI BAPTIST 3, MILLIGAN 0

Milligan ended its season at its third straight NAIA National Championship appearance with a 3-0 (25-13, 25-10, 25-12) loss to Missouri Baptist Saturday in the opening round. Six Buffs made it into the kill column, with Julia Codispoti (four) and Carley Gregory (three) combining for seven of the team's 12 kills. Sydney Hurd tallied 10 assists, and Layla Grant led the defensive effort with seven digs.

Milligan finishes the season at 16-13 overall.

BETHEL 3, REINHARDT 1

Reinhardt fought to the very last whistle in the NAIA Opening Round as the Pilots of Bethel were victorious in four sets, 3-1 (19-25, 22-25, 25-20, 21-25). The group hit .099 collectively, but individually, Shelby Glawson notched 12 kills for a .367. Jacoby Sims was up next with eight scores. Erinn Marroquin helped find her teammates on offense with 33 assists. She posted a double-double with 13 digs as well. Holly Heath led the way with 16 defensive receptions, and also in double figures were Alma Vazquez-Nunez (15) and Sophia Graziano (11).

The loss puts a bow on the 2020 campaign for the hometown club at 22-6.