TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The University of North Alabama beach volleyball team had a successful weekend at the FSU Unconquered Invitational, securing three wins, including a notable victory against UAB.
On Saturday, UNA faced a tough match against No. 8 Florida State but bounced back to defeat UAB, marking their second all-time win over the team. Graduate players Audrey Gauthier and Selma Robinson played key roles in clinching the match. Graduate Sarah Larkin Lewis and sophomore Paige Griner triumphed on court two, sealing the win after a nail-biting three-set match.
In their opening match against Florida State, the Lions struggled, losing 5-0. Despite close moments, particularly in flights one and three, the Seminoles maintained control throughout. Here’s how the matches broke down:
Florida State vs. North Alabama
Court 1: FSU’s Jordan Boulware/Alexis Durish defeated Selma Robinson/Audrey Gauthier, 21-19, 21-14.
Court 2: Gella Andrew/Saofé Duval (FSU) beat Paige Griner/Sarah Larkin Lewis, 21-14, 21-14.
Court 3: Jessica Horwath/Myriah Massey (FSU) defeated Hailey Benesz/Lucy Wedding, 21-18, 21-12.
Court 4: Kyleene Filimaua/Mackenzie Hultquist (FSU) won against Jennah Atchley/Brooke Bolden, 21-16, 21-13.
Court 5: Bailey Higgins/Madison Trusty (FSU) topped Emma White/Mabrey Whitehead, 21-14, 21-13.
In their match against UAB, the excitement increased as the teams split the first four courts, with Griner and Lewis finding themselves in a tight three-set battle. After losing the first set 22-20, they secured the next two at 21-19 and 15-13, delivering the final win for UNA.
UAB vs. North Alabama
Court 1: Robinson/Gauthier defeated Jasmine Haas/Olivia Stant, 21-17, 17-21, 15-13.
Court 2: Griner/Lewis overcame Isabel Day/Pien Grooters, 20-22, 21-19, 15-13.
Court 3: Lauren Cairo/Claudia Stockard (UAB) won against Benesz/Wedding, 21-17, 21-12.
Court 4: Atchley/Bolden beat Delaney Rich/Ashley Torsone, 21-18, 21-19.
Court 5: Olivia Chychrun/Ava Grace Knott (UAB) won over White/Whitehead, 21-19, 22-20.
As the season unfolds, UNA will head to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, for the Tiger Beach Bash from February 27-28, facing teams like Tulane and LSU. This upcoming competition will put their skills to the test against strong opponents.
For fans eager to follow their journey, you can learn more about North Alabama Athletics at roarlions.com and connect with them on social media platforms.
Beach volleyball’s popularity is rising, with more schools adding programs. According to the NCAA, there was a 20% increase in the number of women’s beach volleyball teams from 2020 to 2023. This growth shows a strong interest in the sport. Keep an eye on UNA as they make their mark!
