Tampa Sweeps Lynn in Home Conference Opener

The University of Tampa Spartans defeat the Lynn University Fighting Knights three sets to zero to start conference play at home.

Tampa Sweeps Lynn in Home Conference Opener
September 23, 2017
TAMPA, Fla. – The University of Tampa defeats Lynn in three sets in the first annual Live for 24 match. The Spartans defeated the Knights with set scores of 25-15, 25-14, and 25-17. This win marked the first conference victory of the season for UT.  
 
UT moves to 3-7 on the year with a 1-1 record in Sunshine State Conference competition. 
 
Before the first whistle, emotions ran high, as Melissa Vanderhall's jersey, number 24, was retired.  
 
During the game, sophomore middle blocker Taylor Fosler contributed greatly to the Spartans victory, will 10 kills on 13 attempts, hitting an outstanding .692. Freshman Nylah Demps dominated on the outside pin ending the match with a team-high of 12 kills at a whopping .360 kill percentage. Opposite of Demps, Nicole Dominguez led the team in digs with 17. Veteran setter Sammy Mueller quarterbacked the offense, teeing up 24 assists on the night, while senior Kasey Reynolds played libero for the Spartans ending the night with 11 digs and three assists. 
 
Following the emotional win for the Spartans was a reception in the Sword and Shield room to celebrate and reflect on the life of Melissa Vanderhall, number 24. Coach Chris Catanach gave a speech about Melissa leaving everyone in the room teary-eyed. Following his speech, the Live for 24 committee members spoke, thanking the audience for attending and promoting the new Live for 24 foundation. Former teammates and UT student-athletes were then welcomed to the mic, where they shared memories about Vanderhall. Her legacy will live on through the entire University of Tampa community.  
 
 
Tampa continues conference play Tuesday, September 26 against No. 21 Saint Leo. This match will take place in Bob Martinez, and marks the first of the two rescheduled games that resulted from Hurricane Irma. 
 
Live stats and a live video webcast will be provided through www.tampaspartans.com.
 
 
UT also offers free messaging service for text and/or email, which sends alerts and press releases for Spartan teams. To sign up, please register atwww.tampaspartans.com. A free app is also available for free download through Apple and Google Play stores. Please search for Tampa Spartans Front Row.