For the 5^th consecutive year, the Spalding University Volleyball team reaches the semi-final match in the USCAA Volleyball National Tournament.  In 2008, Spalding claimed the national title defeating power Florida College; however, the past 2 seasons they have lost to the Falcons in the Championship match both in 5 sets. In 2011, Spalding takes on Southern Virginia in the 2^nd Semi-Final match after Florida College defeated Rochester College in 3 straight sets. 

Beginning with the first set, Spalding put the momentum in their favor jumping to a 6-1 run behind freshman outside hitter Elisa Burkman’s 3 consecutive kills. Throughout the middle of the set, it was a full team effort for the Golden Eagles who brought the score to 21-6.  Southern Virginia tried to gain back momentum late in the match, but it was too late as Spalding won the set 25-12.

Southern Va. came out as a different team in the 2^nd set and brought the game to 9-7 and looked to take this effort through the middle of the set.  Spalding would push the set to 12-11 with a few errors by the Knights and a serving ace by sophomore Stefanie Spalding.  This set would go point to point with the score tied at 19-19.  The Golden Eagles would take the score to 21-19 behind Marquardt and Burkman with a kill each.  Marquardt would then capitalize with 2 solo blocks taking the Golden Eagles to set point 24-20.  The Golden Eagles go on to win the set 25-22 moving one win away from advancing to the Championship match against Florida College.

Spalding would go on a 9-4 run to start the 3^rd set with freshman April Fisher contributing with 2 kills. The 3^rd set would bring the score to 21-9 with the Golden Eagles leading.  Spalding would continue their dominate play winning 25-11 in the 3^rd set advancing to the Championship match against Florida College.

Tags: Women's Volleyball //