By KAYLA ROYSTER
Staff Writer
The Golden Knights Volleyball Team defeated the Maurauders of Millersville three sets to one on Friday night in the Daniel P. Nolan Gymnasium.
Maryellen Devic, senior and outside hitter, delivered the final blow, winning Saint Rose the match. The Golden Knights relied on their communication, extended rallies and knowledge, scouting the other team to execute a winning game plan.
After dropping the first set. Saint Rose went on to win three straight, securing the non-conference victory. In the final set, the team had 14 kills, three service aces and two blocks.
Sophomore Sam Kubik had 18 assists on the night, and spoke to her team’s success after the match.
“We talk about staying focused and scouting the other team correctly,” Kubik said. “We spend a lot of time discussing our game plan and theirs.”
Kubik also said that each member of the squad has their own personal pre-game rituals, and alluded to this contributing to their success.
“I have setting rituals. I perform a certain amount of sets on the wall. As a team though, we each have our own individual rituals,” Kubik said.
When asked how she planned to celebrate the victory, Kubik responded by saying the team was going to eat a lot and get ready for their next game.
Head Coach Vanessa Volpe-Rivera also spoke to the team’s success.
“The girls played very well,” said Volpe-Rivera. “Defense was up and our offense was able to finish the job.”
Despite getting off to a rocky start in the first set, Saint Rose didn’t let their early mistakes get to them.
“Our communication helped us push through,” said Rachel Salasky, a senior and Captain.
“Next game during the first set we need to come out faster,” Salasky said, acknowledging there is always room for improvement.
Salasky’s personal goal for upcoming games is to stay vocal and keep her energy up throughout the match.
“The amount of talking on the court helped us keep our heads in the game,” Salasky shared along with her contribution to Friday’s game with some amazing spikes and blocks on her part.
Salasky said she would love to see her team win the conference this year, and eventually make it to the NCAA tournament.
As a senior she shared her views on being part of a team during her time at college.
“I wouldn’t have the family I have with my team,” Salasky said. Playing volleyball keeps her focused so she has had to work hard to prioritize this sport and school work.
The Golden Knights will face Le Moyne on Tuesday night at 7:00 p.m. in the Daniel P. Nolan Gymnasium in the first meeting of this year’s Upstate Challenge.
