Baltimore, MD – The Washington Adventist University (WAU) women's volleyball team experienced their first defeat for the 2024 season, falling 3-1 to Notre Dame of Maryland University on September 10 in a hard-fought road match. The Shock, now 2-1 on the season, displayed resilience but could not overcome the Gators' home-court advantage in Baltimore.

Notre Dame of Maryland came out strong in the first set, utilizing a powerful offense and effective serving to take an early lead. WAU battled back by capitalizing on the NDMU's errors, but the Gators closed the set with a 25-12 win to go up 1-0.

WAU regrouped in the second set, showcasing the teamwork and determination that led to their early-season success. The Shock capitalized on a series of errors from the Gators and used strong serving from Jordyn Stafford to gain the upper hand late in the set. However, with a string of untimely errors by the Shock, NDMU secured the second set 25-20, to go up 2-0.

In the third set, WAU found their footing as Samiah Gross led the way with a 4-0 serving run to start the set. After a strong defensive presence from Candace Kapualani Cabansag, and a string of kills from Ariyanna Gross, the Shock secured the 25-22 victory for set three.

The Gators came out in the fourth set determined as they went on an early 8-2 run to start the set. Despite the Shock's efforts, NDMU regrouped in the fourth set with renewed energy, winning 25-9 to seal the 3-1 victory.

For WAU, Samiah Gross led the way with eleven kills, ten digs, and three aces, while Lynell White contributed ten assists and five kills. Ariyanna Gross was a force defensively with thirteen digs and six kills, keeping the Shock in contention throughout the match. Stafford had a great showing leading the Shock with eleven assists, seven digs, one ace, and one block, while Cabansag proved consistent with eight digs, three blocks, and 1 kill.

Despite the loss, WAU remains focused on their next challenge as they prepare for their upcoming match at the Pitt, hosting NCAA Division I Bowie State on Sunday, September 15. The Shock will look to bounce back and continue their strong start to the season.

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