Wayne, N.J. – The University of Lynchburg women's volleyball team opened its 2025 season with two thrilling five-set victories at William Paterson University, defeating both Washington College (Md.) and William Paterson.

Lynchburg began its campaign against Washington College in a neutral-site matchup. With three transfers in the starting lineup, new faces made an immediate impact. Juanita transfer Jacqueline Bryant powered the Hornets offensively with a staggering 22 kills, tying for the 10th most in a single match in program history. She also posted a .425 hitting percentage and added three service aces. Mercer transfer Kate Hardie followed closely with 16 kills, while Richard Bland transfer Alexis Scipione directed the offense with a match-high 51 assists.

The Shorewomen took control early, handing Lynchburg an 18-25 defeat in the first set. The Hornets quickly regrouped, however, seizing momentum with a 25-16 win in the second frame. The next two sets mirrored one another, with each team trading dominant victories, 25-15 and 25-16.

In the decisive fifth set, Lynchburg surged late behind key points from junior Tori Williamson, who finished the match with 13 kills. The Hornets edged out the win, 17-15.

Following a brief break, Lynchburg returned to the court for its second contest of the evening.

Bryant and Hardie once again led the attack with 14 and 12 kills, respectively. Bryant also served up seven aces—just one shy of tying the sixth-most in program history for a single match.

The Hornets' battle with William Paterson unfolded in similar fashion to the opener, with the teams trading set victories: 25-15, 12-25, 25-13, 15-25.

Lynchburg dominated down the stretch, closing the fifth set with an 8-2 run to secure the 15-8 win.

The Hornets matched a unique feat from last season, when their first two wins of the year also came in five-set fashion.

Lynchburg now turns its attention to Saturday's slate, facing Mount Aloysius at 2 p.m. and Kean at 4 p.m.

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