Volleyball Defeats Florida Gateway in Highly-Contested Battle

After more than a week hiatus from game action, Panthers volleyball returned to the court on saturday night facing off against Florida Gateway College.

Florida Gateway, a team the Panthers have not faced previously, proved to be quite the test. Three sets were decided by three points or less.

A theme throughout the night was key time outs called by head coach Drew Colvin. Any time the Panthers fell into a lull, a brief time out proved to be just what the doctor ordered, as PBSC rallied multiple times after timeout calls.

After winning the first set, Palm Beach fell back on their heels a bit, as Florida Gateway covered the court well and forced the visiting Panthers to adjust accordingly. Multiple shots that would normally fall did not on this day. However, with the game on the line, Palm Beach rallied in set four, forcing a fifth and deciding set. With the momentum in their favor, PBSC controlled most of the fifth set before Florida Gateway answered back. Again, another crucial time out call by Palm Beach allowed for the group to re-focus. Palm Beach finally put the pesky Florida Gateway Wolves away by a final 15-13, winning three sets to two.

Palm Beach received contributions from their entire roster. 13 players received playing time, with 8 recording points. Dena Otte and Angelina Botolino led the team with 15.5 points. Otte led the team in kills with 15. Bianca Justamante and Hailey Hart tied for third on the club with 11 points. Justamante was the Panther that recorded the winning kill. Darlenis Medina had an astounding 50 DIGS. Yes, you read that correctly, 50 DIGS. Our sports information team will check into whether that is the high in the state this season, but without a doubt, it has to be in the conversation. Natalie Faulkner had a busy day once again, serving up 50 assists. Faulkner, through three games, already has over 100 assists.

As a final note, kudos to all of the Panther fans that made the trek up to Lake City. Your presence was certainly felt.

#GoPanthers