Bluefield Volleyball Sweeps Montreat for Conference Victory
Photo courtesy of Bluefield University’s Athletic Communications Department.
Bluefield University’s women’s volleyball team found its rhythm after a competitive opening set, defeating Montreat College 3-0 in Appalachian Athletic Conference play at the Dome on Friday, October 16.
The Rams won the match by scores of 28-26, 25-16, and 25-19, using a strong offensive performance and consistent defensive play to secure the straight-set victory.
The Cavaliers challenged the Rams early in the opening set, forcing Bluefield to play beyond the standard 25-point finish. The Rams ultimately pulled away to win 28-26, setting the tone for the remainder of the match.
The second set proved more comfortable for the Rams. Bluefield established control and limited Montreat to 16 points, taking a 2-0 lead in the match. The Rams carried that momentum into the third set, finishing with a 25-19 victory to complete the sweep.
Outside hitter Faith Alsup led Bluefield with 15 kills, providing a consistent scoring threat throughout the match. Ella Gawellek added 11 kills, while Chesed Russell contributed seven kills to help the Rams produce 45 total kills.
The offense also benefited from the work of setters Kylee Sturgill and Izabella Lechuga. Sturgill recorded a team-high 23 assists, while Lechuga added 14 as Bluefield totaled 42 assists.
Defensively, Sienna Vitelli played a key role in keeping rallies alive, recording 29 digs to lead both teams. Bluefield finished with 63 digs, six more than the Cavaliers, helping the Rams limit the visitors to 27 kills.
Bluefield also held an advantage at the service line, recording seven service aces compared with Montreat’s two. Vitelli and Scarlett Hulse each contributed two aces, while Russell added one.
The Rams finished the match with a .188 hitting percentage, compared with the Cavaliers’ .081. Bluefield’s strongest offensive set came in the third, when the team recorded 17 kills and hit .286 to close out the victory.
The win moved Bluefield to 5-15 overall and 2-12 in conference play. Montreat fell to 5-15 overall and 3-11 in the Appalachian Athletic Conference.
Box Score: Women’s Volleyball vs Montreat on 10/16/2026 – Box Score – Bluefield University Athletics