Pioneers start the season 2-0.

Saturday, August 19^th, the Pioneers had a perfect opening weekend at home, picking up 2 wins to start off the 2023 season, beating Palm Beach State College in straight sets before beating Lake-Sumter State College 3-1 to finish the day.  

The Pioneers started set one with an early lead, really putting the pressure on the Panthers with a 25-16 win in set one. The Panthers and the Pioneers went point for point in the beginning of set 2 until freshman defensive specialist, Mia Nicklas went on a 6-point serving run that gave the Pioneers the opportunity to close out set two 25-20, and take a 2-0 lead on the match. Indian River was able to finish the match and take the game with the third set 25-18.

The Pioneers opened the match against the Lakehawks with a 25-17 win in set one. There were numerous lead changes but, in the end, the Lakehawks took set two 25-23. Starting the third set tied 1-1, the pioneers were able to fight off the Lakehawks 25-16, giving the Pioneers a 2-1 lead. Indian River jumped out quick in the fourth set until Lake-Sumter came back fighting. Both teams fighting point for point, and after a thrilling fourth set, the Pioneers came out on top winning 26-24, ending the match 3-1.

After a great day full of wins, Sophomore Setter, Franziska Kopold lead her team with a total of 72 assist and 16 digs for the day. Sophomore Outside Hitter, Olivia Melton lead the team in kills in both matches totaling 26 kills as well as having 5 blocks. Sophomore Libero, Stella Lukaszuk had herself a day as well with a total of 31 digs.

The Pioneers are back in action at home on Tuesday, August 22^nd, taking on St. Johns River at 5:30pm.