CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Queens University of Charlotte women's volleyball team bounced back in ASUN play with a commanding 3-0 sweep (25-20, 25-22, 28-26) over Bellarmine inside the Levine Center on Sunday, Oct. 20. 

"Something we [the team] talked about yesterday in practice was being resilient and finding reasons rather than excuses," Head Coach Hannah Long said after the match. "I think we came out with a really intentful, purposeful mindset and it showed today."

SET BY SET RECAP
The Royals came out strong in the first set. Queens capitalized on early errors from Bellarmine, including two service errors that gave Queens an early advantage. Standout players included Kayla McDuffie, who dominated at the net with several key blocks and kills, helping Queens maintain control. Despite a brief rally by Bellarmine, including kills from Natalie Bland and Addison Foote, Queens held firm. Strong defense from Jordyn Johnson and Tilley Collins helped close out the set for a confident 25-20 win.

The second set was a back-and-forth affair with six ties. Emma Norris and Ellis Sargent led the attack for Queens, but Bellarmine fought hard, thanks to Anna Purichia and Mara Perry. Queens built a slim lead, relying on McDuffie's steady offense and Kendall Buish's setting. Bellarmine kept it close with Bland's relentless attack, but a crucial block from Sargent at 24-22 helped seal the set for Queens.

The final set was a thriller, featuring 18 ties and 5 lead changes. Both teams traded blows, with Foote and Bland pushing Bellarmine ahead multiple times. Queens, however, stayed resilient, with McDuffie, Johnson, and Sargent leading the charge. The set saw intense rallies, culminating in a tense 28-26 win for Queens after Purichia's attack error, giving the Royals a 3-0 sweep. 

ROYAL RUNDOWN

• Kayla McDuffie led with 11 kills and eight total blocks, including a dominating hitting percentage of .526.
• Jordyn Johnson contributed a solid nine kills and 14 digs.
• Kendall Buish dished out 36 assists and controlled the pace for Queens.
• Ellis Sargent totaled four blocks, matching a career-high. 

UP NEXT
Next, the Royals head on the road to face Central Arkansas on Oct. 25. 

SOCIAL MEDIA
Be sure to follow the Royals women's volleyball team on Instagram and Twitter/X stay up to date on all the latest news surrounding the team. Fans are also encouraged to follow Queens Athletics to stay updated on all the Royals sports teams in action by searching @QueensAthletics on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.