Endicott makes program history with first win over Tufts

Medford, Mass. – The Endicott women’s volleyball defeated non-conference opponent Tufts University from the NESCAC 3-1 (14-25, 25-23, 25-14, 25-22) and in the process made history by recording their first victory over the Jumbos in program history.

Tufts, who suffered the loss on their senior night, was ranked fourth in the NCAA Division III New England regional rankings and the New England Women’s Volleyball Association Regional Poll this past week.

The Gulls dropped the first set to the Jumbos, but Endicott regained composure to win three straight sets to take the win.

In the first set, Tufts led the entire way with their largest lead being 13 points at 21-8. Endicott trimmed the Tufts lead down to seven points at 15-8 at one point, but the home team never allowed their opponents to get any closer as the Jumbos won 25-14 in the first set.

Endicott fell behind early in the second set, but the Blue and Green rallied to tie 8-8 then took the lead for good. The Gulls built a lead as large as seven points in the set, eventually taking the frame 25-23 despite a late run by the Jumbos.

Endicott went on to dominate the third set 25-14, never allowing Tufts to hold a lead or force a tie.

In the fourth set, Endicott drew even with Tufts at 21 points apiece and then scored three straight points to go up 24-21. The Gulls would eventually win 25-22 to take the 3-1 win.

The Blue and Green were led with 15 kllls and 10 digs by senior Brittany Phillips (Sudbury, Mass.) and 22 digs from sophomore Ashley Norley (Sudbury, Mass.). Junior setter Sarah Allshouse (Berthoud, Colo.) had 36 assists and four blocks while Elyse Barbour (Greenville, R.I.) added 11 kills in the win.

Endicott improves to 17-12 on the season and will travel to New London, Connecticut for a tri-match with the United States Coast Guard Academy and Connecticut College starting at 1:00 pm on Saturday, October 23. The Coast Guard is currently ranked fifth in New England by the NCAA and the NEWVA.