BRONX, NY – Fordham University’s volleyball team put up a strong defensive game but fell short in a 3-1 loss to Hofstra at the Rose Hill Gym. They recorded 15 blocks during the match.
Erynn Sweeney led the Rams with 10 kills. Defensively, Audrey Brown and Ozge Ozaslan each contributed significantly with 16 and 14 digs, respectively. Tatum Holderied was particularly impressive with 10 blocks, helping Fordham achieve double-digit blocks for the fifth straight match—marking a record start for the program.
Highlights from the Match:
- Ozge Ozaslan recorded two aces.
- Tatum Holderied notched 10 blocks, the highest in the match.
- Fordham’s defense picked up 15 blocks overall.
- Erynn Sweeney led the team with 10 kills.
- Audrey Brown managed 16 digs, a team-high.
- Whitney Woodrow provided 27 assists to support the attackers.
Match Breakdown:
In the first set, Fordham lost a close contest, 25-21. Hofstra took the lead for good at 15-14. The Rams and Hofstra fought fiercely, tied five times. Fordham bounced back in the second set, winning 25-16 after gaining an early lead and maintaining control throughout.
The third set saw Hofstra rally back to take a 2-1 lead, concluding 25-22 in a tightly contested battle with multiple lead changes. Unfortunately, Fordham couldn’t maintain the momentum in the fourth set, falling 25-18 despite a late rally.
As they close out the Rose Hill Classic, Fordham will play their final match against Temple tomorrow at 4:00 p.m.
In broader context, Fordham’s volleyball performance reflects a growing trend in collegiate sports where defensive strategies are increasingly emphasized. According to a recent study by the NCAA, defensive plays, such as blocks and digs, have become key indicators of success in volleyball, affecting win rates significantly.
Fans on social media have also noted the Rams’ solid start. One Twitter user remarked, “It’s great to see the team’s defense evolving like this! Keep pushing!” Engaging with supporters can motivate the players as they continue their season.
For more on collegiate volleyball strategies, check out the NCAA’s official publications on player performance and training. NCAA
