Sandhills Flyers Finish NJCAA National Championship in 6th Place
The Sandhills Community College Flyers volleyball team soared to impressive heights at the NJCAA National Championship tournament held in Huntsville, Alabama. The event started with a banquet on Wednesday night at Dave and Buster's in Huntsville. All athletes were treated to a night of great food and all the games they could play in the arcade. "Having the banquet at Dave & Buster's was the best banquet I have ever been to," recalled Alexis Hinson. Joining the Flyers for the banquet as well as day one of the tournament was SCC president Sandy Stewart. After the banquet, the Flyers turned in for the night in preparation for an intense competition over the next three days. When the dust settled on the weekend in Alabama, the Flyers clinched a commendable 6th place overall, showcasing their talent and determination on the national stage.
Day 1 Highlights
On the tournament's opening day, Sandhills made a powerful statement with a convincing 4-1 victory. In a series of tightly contested matchups, the Flyers demonstrated their skill and teamwork. Dajsha Fields and Lainey Mullins led the charge in Pair 1, securing a crucial win with set scores of 23-21, 14-21, and 17-15 against tough opponents from Trinidad State College. "It was a great experience, and I'm glad I got to go with such a great group of girls," reflected Lainey Mullins. Caroline Bradford and Emma Brown also displayed resilience in Pair 2, contributing to Sandhills' early success with a 21-15, 17-21, and 15-6 triumph.
Day 2 Performance
Sandhills continued their winning ways on Day 2, securing another impressive 4-1 victory. Aydan Bullard and Jenna Luquer delivered a standout performance in Pair 3, dominating their opponents with set scores of 21-6, 21-17. Olivia Barlowe and Nikki Lambert also showcased their prowess in Pair 4, contributing crucial points with a commanding 21-8, 21-4 win. "Getting to attend the championship in Alabama was such a fun and awesome opportunity," remarked Nikki Lambert. "It was super encouraging for me to see that our school is competitive with programs that are more experienced, and it shows the hard work we put in pays off." Lambert's thoughts were echoed by her teammates, "Being able to be a part of nationals was such a great experience," expressed Aydan Bullard. "Going to Alabama for Nationals was a very exciting event," added Jenna Luquer.
Day 3 Challenges
Championship day was a different setup than days one and two with games ending at decision. This means that when a team wins three out of five pairs, the dual is immediately over. Facing tough competition, the Flyers battled fiercely but ultimately fell short against Richard Bland College in the quarter-finals and Mesa Community College in the 5th place game. Against Richard Bland, the Flyers 4th pair, Olivia Barlowe and Nikki Lambert were leading one set to none when the match ended. As the Flyers faced the Thunderbirds of Mesa, Olivia Barlowe and Nikki Lambert as well as Alyssa Maragelis and Alexis Hinson were even in their respective sets when the match was decided. Despite the challenges, Sandhills showed resilience and fought until the last point. Dajsha Fields and Lainey Mullins demonstrated their tenacity in Pair 1, putting up a valiant effort against formidable opponents. "Playing in the championship in Alabama this past week was so much fun," shared Olivia Barlowe. "This trip was bittersweet as it is my last time playing with these talented girls and for the best coaches."
Overall Performance
The Flyers' journey at the NJCAA National Championship tournament was marked by moments of brilliance and determination. "I had a great time at nationals in Alabama," said Caroline Bradford. "Competing at Nationals with my partner was a blast!" exclaimed Emma Brown. The Flyers 6th place finish is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and talent.
Final Standings
- Palm Beach State College
- Richard Bland College
- State College of Florida
- Lake Sumter State College
- Mesa Community College
- Sandhills Community College
- Gaston College
- Trinidad State College
- Bryant and Stratton, Wisconsin