WAYNESBURG, PA (Feb. 23) – The Waynesburg University Men's Club Volleyball alumni team delivered a comeback victory against the 2009 Yellow Jackets winning (3-2) after losing two straight sets early in the 2009 Alumni Challenge Match held this past Saturday in the Rudy Marisa Field House.
The alumni squad fell behind two straight sets losing (25-22), (25-21) and found themselves on the verge of an early decision loss at the hands of the 2009 Yellow Jackets squad. “They played big and they played big early.” Explained alumni libero and current head coach, James Patterson. “the alumni squad was in a bit of a daze losing so many points early in both sets and they took advantage of it.” The alumni produced a solid showing at the net with multiple blocks but never seemed to produce an attack off serve receive with poor passing. The 2009 Jackets however took advantage of a sputtering alumni offense and rattled off a total of 12 unanswered points early through both sets.
Down two sets to none, the alumni found themselves in a must win situation and win they did taking the third set (25-21) due in large part to their defensive play. “We couldn't quite find a rhythm in our transition and attack but our defense kept us in the match until we could start putting balls away.” stated alumni outside hitter David Peters. The third set was an offensive display from alumni outside hitters Scott Carson and Eric Schons. Alumni libero James Patterson added 8 points with 3 aces at serve as the Alumni evened the match at two sets a piece.
The fifth and final set was a race to 15 points on both sides of the net. Offensive strikes by the 2009 Jackets kept the alumni on their toes as freshman middle hitter, Joel Wingard and sophomore outside hitter, Jesse Famularo lead the team in attacks. The alumni would pull ahead at the halfway mark with the score (8-3) before turning in a match victory (15-11).
“It was a lot of fun to meet some of the guys that have played for the program before I was here. Someday that will be me on the other side of the net but for now, I'm looking forward to next seasons rematch!” stated freshman libero, Clayton Reiber. Although the 2009 squad could not seal the victory, taking two sets off a stacked alumni team is no easy task. “They played well, I am excited to get back on the floor with them at practice next week and prepare for WVU and Robert Morris, if they play like this next Saturday, look out!” Coach Patterson added with excitement.
The Jackets will be at home this Saturday, February 28th at 1pm against Robert Morris University with a 2:30pm start time against WVU in the last home tri-match of the season. For further information please feel free to contact James Patterson at jpatters@waynesburg.edu or by phone at 724-852-3346.
