Pioneers Power Past Truett McConnell for Straight-Set Win

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – An Appalachian Athletic Conference back-and-forth battle took place inside Bridges Arena as the Spartanburg Methodist College volleyball team hosted Truett McConnell. The Pioneers came away with a 25-22, 25-19, 25-21 sweep in a match that featured 28 ties and 14 lead changes.

Spartanburg Methodist (11-15, 6-7 AAC) put together an all-around effort, hitting .206 for the match. Leilani Campbell led the attack with 10 kills, four of which came in the final set. Three Pioneers — Hana Vucinic, Braelynn Brewington and Kendall Meinders — each added six kills, while Aurora Aho contributed five.

Tristan Craine recorded three of SMC's seven service aces to go along with 17 assists, while Brook Noe added 13 assists and seven digs. Aho paced the defense with 14 digs, and Vucinic followed with 12. The Pioneers also tallied six total blocks, highlighted by four block assists from Brewington and two solo blocks from Campbell.

"We came out strong and stayed composed in big moments," said SMC head coach Makayla Holcombe. "Our energy and communication were key tonight, and I'm proud of how we finished each set with confidence."

Truett McConnell (11-16, 4-9 AAC) featured a balanced attack as well, with Faith Clarkson leading the Bulldogs with 10 kills and a .296 hitting percentage. Emma Boland notched a double-double with 19 assists and 10 digs, while also adding three kills and three aces. Julia Fisher chipped in seven kills, eight digs, two solo blocks and one block assist in the loss.

Next, SMC will host its annual Dig Pink Match on Friday at 6:30 p.m. when the Pioneers welcome Tennessee Wesleyan to Bridges Arena.

Highlights and Post-Match Interview with Leilani Campbell