Harrison Lilley

Staff Writer

hjl5363@psu.edu

Erie, Pa. – In a challenging non-conference doubleheader at the Junker Center on Saturday, January 27, the Penn State Behrend men’s volleyball team showcased resilience and determination but ultimately faced defeat against tough opponents. The Lions battled fiercely, falling 3-0 to No. 5 St. John Fisher and 3-2 to No. 19 Baldwin Wallace.

Match One: Penn State Behrend vs. No. 19 Baldwin Wallace (3-2)

The first match of the day saw a thrilling five-set showdown between Penn State Behrend and Baldwin Wallace. Despite being down two sets, the Lions roared back, clinching the next two sets to force a decisive fifth.

In the third set, Behrend seized control, winning 25-20, and continued their momentum by dominating the fourth set with a 25-11 victory. The Lions displayed outstanding defensive prowess, recording a season-high 12 blocks, including four solo and 16 assisted.

Daniel Easly, hailing from Erie, PA, and a product of McDowell High School, led the Lions with 11 kills, nine digs, and four blocks. Joshua Elegeer, from Waterford, PA, contributed 14 digs and five assists, while Alex Jackson of Cochranton, PA, recorded 34 assists, five kills, and four digs. Owen Wienczkowski from Waterford, PA, posted nine kills and six blocks.

Despite their valiant efforts, the Lions fell short in the fifth set, with Baldwin Wallace securing the win through two kills and an ace. The match featured a total of 16 ties and three lead changes, showcasing the intensity of the battle.

Match Two: Penn State Behrend vs. No. 5 St. John Fisher (0-3)

In their second match of the day, the Lions faced another formidable opponent in No. 5 St. John Fisher. The Cardinals proved to be a tough challenge, securing a 3-0 victory with scores of 25-23, 25-20, and 25-21.

Throughout the match, Penn State Behrend stayed within five points or less in each set, demonstrating their determination. Despite a commendable effort, the Lions couldn’t overcome St. John Fisher’s offensive firepower, with the Cardinals registering a total of 46 kills.

Key contributors for the Lions included Elegeer with 13 digs, Kyle Hoffman with six kills, five digs, and a notable performance in blocking alongside Lewis Rhodes, who combined for 10 block assists. Jackson continued to showcase his playmaking abilities with 17 assists, contributing to a total of 51 helpers on the day.

Despite the back-to-back losses, the Lions exhibited resilience and teamwork, gaining valuable experience against top-ranked opponents. The team’s record now stands at 1-5 for the season as they look ahead to future challenges in their pursuit of success.