Written by Katherine Clatterbuck
The Roanoke volleyball team is off to a terrific start with their 4-2 overall and conference record. Averaging 11.8 kills and 17 digs per set, these Maroons are working hard in this shortened season. In total, the team will only have 11 in-season games, due to COVID-related restrictions and cancellations. The team has competed in 6 matches so far, with wins over Eastern Mennonite, Emory & Henry, Bridgewater, and Shenandoah. In their season opener, a tri-match with Lynchburg and Eastern Mennonite, the Maroons won 3 of 3 sets against Eastern Mennonite, with key players Linsey Bailey recording 14 kills and Kennedy Clemmer having 17 digs. Clemmer continued her impressive dig records with 27 digs at the team’s match against Emory & Henry, resulting in a 3-0 set win for the Maroons.
Roanoke is currently ranked fifth in team digs, fourth in hitting percentage, and third in service aces, which proves that the hard work of these women is paying off in their play. Linsey Bailey was named ODAC Player of the Week for the week of March 30th. Bailey was recognized for her 23 kills in the team’s match against Bridgewater, leaving her ranked in the conference at second in kills per set and points earned, and third in points per set at the time of her recognition. The team is also highlighted in the conference rankings by Clemmer, who is ranked first in digs per set, third in digs, and fourth in service aces per set. Logan Pasley is tied with Clemmer for fourth in service aces per set. Olivia Newman is ranked fifth in assists per set. These stellar players, along with the rest of the team, have propelled the team to 5th place in the conference standings.
The team is set to face off against Randolph College on April 15th, as they head towards the ODAC tournament beginning May 1st. Due to COVID-19, only 4 teams will advance to the tournament, playing for the coveted conference championship. We wish our volleyball team the best as they work towards that fourth seed rank and the opportunity to grab another conference championship for Roanoke.
