Join the Excitement: Phoenix Hosts N.C. A&T at Schar Center This Weekend – Elon University Athletics

The Elon University volleyball team is set to face off against North Carolina A&T this weekend at Schar Center. The matches are part of the CAA series, with the first match on Friday at 3 p.m. and the second on Saturday at 6 p.m.

Series Overview

These two teams have a long history, with Elon leading the series 33-13 since they first met in 1978. Despite this advantage, N.C. A&T has performed well recently, winning four out of their last six encounters, including both matches last season.

Elon’s last victory against the Aggies was in 2022, where they swept both games in Greensboro. Their most recent home win over N.C. A&T dates back to August 28, 2018.

Recent Performance

Elon recently faced top-ranked Towson, where they managed to secure a vital win, breaking Towson’s 18-match streak. Clara Simmons stood out with 27 kills, while Simrin Carlsen and Catherine Rucker complemented the offensive effort with strong performances.

Currently, Elon sits at 3-5 in conference play, aiming to improve their standing. They average 11.2 kills per set but are holding opponents to a .236 hitting percentage.

Key Players

Simmons leads the team with an average of 2.65 kills per set. Carlsen, a standout transfer from Johns Hopkins, has also been crucial, contributing significantly in both kills and digs. Rucker has shown her prowess in both blocking and serving.

N.C. A&T is also in strong form, having swept William & Mary in their last series. The Aggies boast a balanced attack, with 12.6 kills per set and their star player, Tyne Ross, leading the CAA in kills per set.

Coaching Insight

Elon’s head coach, Matt Troy, is in his first season, bringing significant experience and success from Johns Hopkins, where he led the team to a Division III national championship. His coaching focused on improving player skills and team dynamics.

Community Engagement

Elon plays in the Schar Center, which hosts about 5,100 fans. The venue is also home to Elon’s men’s and women’s basketball teams. All admission is free, encouraging community support and engagement.

As both teams gear up for this exciting weekend, the clash is bound to highlight the rivalry and showcase the talent present in CAA volleyball.

For updates on Elon volleyball, follow them on X and Instagram.

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