SPARTANBURG, S.C. --- Chattanooga volleyball came up short in their SoCon opener on Thursday night, falling 3-1 to Wofford in Spartanburg.
The Mocs threw everything they had the Terriers behind numerous standout offensive and defensive performances by UTC. It was a stout night digging the ball by the Terriers that proved to be the Mocs' downfall, with the Terriers setting a program record for digs in a four-set match with 115.
Set one was all Chattanooga to open the match, as a strong start by UTC's block proved crucial in the long run of the set. The Mocs' defense, paired with a quick start on offense by Sydney Jackwin, helped guide UTC to a 25-23 win in the opening frame, jumping ahead of the Terriers 1-0.
Chattanooga's front row continued to set the tone upfront, as freshman Kynli Kirkendoll helped the Mocs pick up right where they had left off in the first. However, this go around the Terriers wouldn't go quietly into the night as the back half of the frame started to go the Terriers way. While the Mocs were able to fend off multiple Wofford set points, it was ultimately the Terriers that would take set two, 25-22, leveling the score at 1-1.
While the Mocs were able to hang with the Terriers over the next two sets, Wofford didn't slow down after gaining one back from UTC as the Terriers claimed 25-19 and 25-20 set wins, ultimately claiming the match win over Chattanooga in four sets.
Chard'e Vanzandt was a star for the Mocs in the loss, pacing the team with 15 kills while logging her first collegiate double-double with an additional 13 digs. Sydney Jackwin joined Vanzandt in the double-digit kills department, finishing with 10.
Paige Gallentine's 26 digs in the match marked more than just a near season-high for the senior, as Gallentine made history on the night moving into second all-time in program history for career digs. When removing the former 30-point set and rally scoring eras, Gallentine would rank first in program history for digs, as she now sits at 2,335 in her time at Chattanooga.
Outside of Gallentine and Vanzandt, a three other Mocs finished their night with over 10 digs: Sydney Jackwin (18), Chandler Alter (17) and Elaine Redman (11). Redman would also go on to have a double-double after tallying 41 assists.
The Mocs were rounded out on the stat sheet by Kynli Kirkendoll, who ended her night with a team-high six blocks, five of which were solo.
UP NEXT
The Mocs now turn their attention to Sunday, as Chattanooga is slated to host Samford at Maclellan Gymnasium for UTC's SoCon home opener. First serve is scheduled for 2 p.m. ET and the match will be available on ESPN+.
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