Tampa Keeps Conference Record Perfect on Senior Day
TAMPA, Fla. - No. 7 University of Tampa volleyball celebrated Senior Day by picking up another Sunshine State Conference victory. The Spartans defeated the Fighting Knights of Lynn University in three sets.
Tampa improves its overall record to 25-3 on the year. The Spartans continue to lead the SSC with a perfect 14-0 mark in conference play. The Fighting Knights fall to 14-11, 4-9 SSC.
Prior to the afternoon match, seniors Danielle Selkridge, Jessica Yingling and Sloane Baby were honored for their senior status. All three key members of the team performed well, with Selkridge leading the Spartans. The middle hitter recorded 12 kills and improved her already best in the nation attack percentage of .478.
With all three seniors getting the start, Tampa jumped out and won the opening set 25-13. Selkridge and Holly Reschke paced the Spartan offense, each contributing three kills. Sophomore Jackie Neff also helped by swinging for a perfect 2-2. On the defensive end, Tampa recorded 19 digs, with Yingling posting six to lead the Spartans.
The second frame once again saw Selkridge and Reschke fuel the Spartans. The tandem connected for six and four kills respectively. Marissa Lisenbee also got in on the action, adding two kills. Tampa held off a comeback attempt by the Fighting Knights to secure a 25-19 win.
For the final stanza, Baby brought the Spartan crowd to its feet by connecting for three service aces in the opening points. Her fellow seniors each added three kills and a combined five blocks. Setter Kahley Patrick recorded eight assists as Tampa finished off the Fighting Knights with a 25-11 victory.
The Spartans will return Wednesday, November 14th for a Sunshine State Conference matchup against rival Eckerd College. The Tritons of Eckerd gave Tampa a great game on October 10th, stretching UT out for a five set thriller before Tampa came back to get the victory. Eckerd now sits in second place in the SSC, posting a 20-7 (11-2) record.
Wednesday's game can also be a monumental milestone for Spartans head coach Chris Catanach. The longtime coach is one win away from 900 career victories. Live stats as well as a live video webcast for the Nov. 14th match will be available through www.tampaspartans.tv.
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