The Benedictine Mesa Women's Volleyball Team faced a day of intense competition, starting with a hard-fought 3-1 loss to #19 St. Thomas (19-25, 25-21, 25-27, 24-26) before rebounding impressively to sweep Truett McConnell in three sets (25-19, 25-17, 26-24). These matches highlighted Benedictine's resilience and ability to adapt under pressure.
 
In the opening match against St. Thomas, Benedictine Mesa came out strong, with Railey Druxman and Kylie Bartel leading the offensive charge. Despite their efforts, St. Thomas capitalized on a few critical errors to take the first set 25-19. Benedictine responded with renewed energy in the second set, with Druxman and Bartel continuing to shine, supported by Megan Hicks. Their consistent play helped Benedictine edge out a 25-21 victory, leveling the match.
 
The third set was a nail-biter, with both teams exchanging leads. Benedictine initially took the advantage, but St. Thomas rallied. The set ended in a narrow 27-25 loss for Benedictine. Facing elimination in the fourth set, Benedictine fought valiantly, narrowing the gap to 25-24 with a crucial kill by Jewel Carling and a block by Hailey White. However, St. Thomas secured the final points to win the set 26-24 and the match 3-1.
 
In their second match against Truett McConnell, Benedictine Mesa demonstrated determination and control. The first set saw them take an early lead, with powerful kills from Jewel Carling contributing to a 25-19 win. Benedictine maintained momentum in the second set, extending their lead through consistent pressure and strong plays from Bartel and Druxman, closing the set 25-17. The third set was more competitive, with Truett McConnell narrowing the gap late in the game. However, Benedictine held firm, and a final service ace by Bartel sealed the set at 26-24, completing a 3-0 sweep.
 
Key Individuals:

• Kylie Bartel:In the first match, Bartel recorded 25 kills and 10 digs. In the second match, she added 17 kills, one ace, and one block.
• Railey Druxman: Druxman had 14 kills and 12 digs in the first match and contributed 6 kills and 9 digs in the second.
• Vivianna Galvan: Galvan tallied 16 assists and one ace in the first match, and in the second, she added one ace, 11 assists, and 9 digs.

 
Looking Ahead: The Redhawks will face Oregon Tech and Keiser on Monday, August 19th, at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM in West Palm Beach, FL.