BALTIMORE– The Notre Dame of Maryland women's volleyball team bounced back from a slow start, defeating Mary Baldwin University in five sets on Thursday, Oct. 12. The Gators secured the victory thanks to set scores of 10-25, 25-15, 25-18, 17-25 and 15-9.  

The Gators' (9-8 Overall, 2-1 United East) offense was driven by Miasia Ferrer who led the team with 12 kills. Gabbi Taganas added 11 kills to go along with three block assists. Jade Stewart and Ciarra Bockstie made an impact racking up seven kills each. Natalie Newton had her best outing of the season, finishing with 36 assists. 

NDMU's defense was led by Paulina Hernandez who recorded 21 digs. Elena Aungst continued to make improvements finishing with 12 digs. 

The Gators dropped the opening set but came out strong in the second set. NDMU crushed the ball, recording 12 kills on 30 swings hitting .267 as a team in the set. The Gators used the momentum from the second set victory to jump out to a 15-9 lead. The Fighting Squirrels tried to battle back, closing with five late in the set, but kills from Stewart and Newton secured the victory. 

After losing the fourth set, NDMU jumped out to an early advantage behind three service aces by Newton. The teams traded points throughout the set with the Gators clinging to a 10-9 lead. Rosemary O'Brien slammed down a kill to give NDMU a three-point lead. Taganas closed out the victory recording a block and a kill to clinch the victory.  

WHO'S NEXT? 
The Gators return to United East play when they travel to face Keystone College on Saturday, Oct. 14. The first serve is scheduled for 1:00 PM.  
 
STAY CONNECTED 
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