WASHINGTON, D.C. — Lynchburg men's volleyball delivered a complete performance on Friday at the Field House, earning a pair of 3–1 victories over Penn State-Altoona and Gallaudet to open the season 2–0.
Lynchburg opened the day with a strong four-set victory over Penn State-Altoona, controlling much of the match behind efficient hitting and a dominant presence at the net. After edging the Lions in a tight first set, the Hornets responded well to a second-set setback by taking control of the final two frames to close out the match.
The Hornets finished the contest hitting .304 as a team and posted advantages in kills (53–38), assists (47–34), and blocks (9–2). Lynchburg's offense was paced by Bryce Jackson, who led all players with 15 kills while also contributing five blocks. Joshua Davis added 13 kills on the outside, and Nick Redding chipped in 10 kills while providing steady production throughout the match.
At the setter position, Will Radi directed the offense efficiently, handing out 45 assists and helping Lynchburg maintain balance across all attacking options. Defensively, the Hornets were sharp at the net, slowing Penn State-Altoona's attack and forcing hitting errors, particularly in the final two sets. Lynchburg's ability to control the tempo and capitalize on extended rallies proved to be the difference as the Hornets pulled away late to secure the win.
In the nightcap, Lynchburg faced a resilient Gallaudet squad and responded with poise after dropping the opening set. The Hornets rebounded by winning the next three sets, leaning heavily on defensive effort and strong blocking to wear down the Bison over the course of the match.
Lynchburg totaled 42 kills while recording an impressive 57 digs and 10 blocks in the four-set victory. Bryce Jackson once again led the attack with 11 kills and five blocks, anchoring the Hornets at the net on both ends of the floor. Jeremiah Costello provided key contributions with seven kills and a pair of aces, while Troy Trujillo also added a service ace to help swing momentum.
The Hornets' defensive effort stood out throughout the match, with Wyatt Nunes leading the back row with 16 digs. Will Radi continued to guide the offense effectively, finishing with 14 assists, while Miller Varley and Josh Rohman combined for 17 assists to keep the offense flowing. Lynchburg's blocking presence was critical in the later sets, as the Hornets consistently disrupted Gallaudet's attack and turned defense into transition points.
After pulling ahead late in the third set, Lynchburg carried that momentum into the fourth, closing out the match with composure to complete the sweep of the day.
The Hornets return to action next week on Saturday, Jan. 31, in Bluefield, Va. for another doubleheader against Bluefield and Rio Grande.
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