IRSC Volleyball Defeats Polk In Conference Opener

On Thursday September 2^nd the River opened conference competition on their home court against the Eagles of Polk State College. The Eagles are currently ranked 4^th in the State while the Pioneers are ranked 7^th. The River started set 1 with an early lead, really putting the pressure on the eagles. Indian River prevailed in set one 25-16. The momentum and the energy were on the side of The River able to top the eagles in set 2, 25-16, and take a 2-0 lead on the match. Knowing the match was at stake, the Eagles really pushed in set 3. There were several lead changes but ultimately Polk got one on The River taking set 3 25-21. In set 4 The River knew they had to protect their home floor and the change to start conference competition 1-0. Indian River was able to finish the match and take the game 3-1 with a set 4 score of 25-21.

The River had 4 players mark double digit kills. Sophomore Middle Blocker Jeyhlen Thomas had 10 kills on the night and added 4 block assists. Outside hitters Doris De Prato had 12 kills and freshmen Greta Klotz posted 13. Mallory Roney posted her first double-double on the season with 12 kills and leading the team with 24 digs. Sophomore setter Bella Rae lead the team in hitting percentage 0.333, proving herself an offensive threat. She also had 45 assists on the night.

This marks head coach Jordan Bickett's first win at The River. She says, "Tonight was a whirlwind experience. I was really nervous for this match, home opener and conference opener against a very good team. After set one I was able to settle my nerves and I think we all just had more fun. I am really proud of our team and our fight. This is a big win for us."