The William Smith volleyball team overcame an opening-set loss Friday to defeat Skidmore 3-1 in Liberty League action. The Herons improved to 14-4 overall and 5-1 in conference play, while the Thoroughbreds dropped to 10-10 and 1-4.
William Smith received double-digit kills from three players, led by Cassidy Breuer’s match-high 16. Arielle Newsome added a season-high 12 kills, while Maren Hunt finished with 10.
Skidmore claimed the opening set 25-22 after using a five-point run to gain momentum midway through the frame.
The Herons responded in the second set, racing to a 9-1 advantage before holding off a late Skidmore rally for a 25-23 victory.
William Smith carried that momentum into the third set, capitalizing on eight Skidmore hitting errors to secure a 25-20 win.
The Herons completed the comeback with a 25-18 fourth-set victory, using strong defense at the net to force 10 hitting errors. Breuer and Emily Fulton delivered the final kills.
Delainy Williams directed William Smith’s offense with 41 assists while adding 11 digs, recording her seventh double-double of the season.
Kali Vanderhoof led the defensive effort with 19 digs, while Hunt contributed five blocks. Senya Dorny recorded a season-high four service aces.
William Smith finished with advantages in kills (48-39), digs (64-60) and blocks (9-5).
Chloe Heitman paced Skidmore with 12 kills, while Natalie Pedersen added 10.
The Herons return to Liberty League competition Saturday when they travel to face St. Lawrence at 2 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.
