Sweep of Walsh Kicks off Crusader Classic
October 23, 2009
The No. 20 Taylor volleyball team opened play at the Madonna (Mich.) Crusader Classic Friday by defeating Walsh (Ohio) in three straight sets by a final score of 25-21, 26-24, 25-19.
Taylor (23-4) handed Walsh (23-3) just its third loss of the season, including the first straight set loss for the Cavaliers. In the latest NAIA Top 25 Coaches' Poll, Walsh was in the receiving votes section of the Poll.
The match marked the 14th time the Trojans have shutout an opponent this season.
Kelsey Pritchard collected 16 kills to pace a Trojans attack that swung at .294 for the match. Jackie Geile posted a double-double with 14 digs to go along with ten kills on 22 total attempts for a .409 hitting percentage.
Setter Betsy Brown was over two assists better than her per set average of 10.40 with a total of 38 assists in the match.
Anchoring the back row for the Trojans was freshman libero Courtney Herschberger, who tallied 15 digs. Bethany Beck led at the net with three block assists.
Taylor continues play Friday with a 7 p.m. match against tournament host and 18th-ranked Madonna (Mich.).