Playing at home for the first time this season, the Tompkins Cortland Community College volleyball team came within a few points of earning their first win before ultimately falling to Cayuga Community College, 3-2. That match was followed by 3-0 losses to Jefferson Community College and Onondaga Community College. The results leave the Panthers with a record of 0-4 on the season.

The day stated well for the home team, with the Panthers jumping out to a 9-1 lead before cruising to a 25-18 win in the first set. The second set was much tighter, with the Panthers coring the final four points to come from behind to win 25-23. With the chance to close out the win in the third set, the roles were reversed with the Panthers holding a late lead before Cayuga scored the final four points to down the Panthers 25-23. Set four went to the Spartans 25-18 before the visitors claimed the win with a 15-8 fifth set.

The second match was against a very strong Jefferson squad, and the result was a 25-9, 25-18, 25-9 sweep for the Cannoneers. The day ended on down note for the Panthers as their final contest went to Onondaga after an injury in the first set forced the Panthers to forfeit the match.  

The Panthers were led by their two sophomores. Adrianna Royce (Newfield/Newfield H.S.) fired 13 aces, pulled out 10 digs, and dished out 8 assists on the day. Ashley Hoyte (Dryden/Dryden H.S.) had a team-best 11 kills to go with 8 aces, 6 digs, and 5 assists.

Looking ahead

The Panthers home match with Broome scheduled for Wednesday (9/14) has been postponed. The team looks to return to action Saturday (9/17) at the Region 3 Pod hosted by Herkimer College.