SWEET BRIAR, Va. – The Sweet Briar College volleyball team (0-1) opened up the 2025-26 season for Division III with its 10 a.m. contest against the Johnson & Wales University – Charlotte Wildcats (1-0, 0-0 C2C). The Vixens put up a tough fight in their first return to action since the 2010 season, but ultimately fell in three sets (9-25, 16-25, 8-25).
In the first set, quick momentum from Johnson & Wales saw Sweet Briar fall behind early after multiple consecutive service aces and kills by the visitors. Meanwhile, the Vixens were limited to just one kill in the set, ultimately dropping it 25-9. Defensive plays were highlighted by digs from junior
Gracyn Wright (Rock Hill, S.C.) and a service ace from junior
Isabella Peregrine (Liberty, Mo.).
The second set showed improvement for Sweet Briar, with the team registering more kills and keeping the score line closer through the early points, with Wright contributing a kill. Sweet Briar capitalized on several errors from Johnson & Wales to draw within striking distance. However, consistent serving pressure from the Wildcats, including multiple aces, kept Sweet Briar trailing, and the Vixens ultimately dropped the set 25-16 after a late scoring push by their opponents.
The third set saw Sweet Briar facing another surge from Johnson & Wales, as the Wildcats established a commanding lead and maintained their momentum throughout. Although Sweet Briar managed a few successful rallies, the set concluded 25-8 in favor of the visitors. Across the match, Wright led the Vixens in kills and digs, while senior Davis Shifflet (Louisa, Va.) and Peregrine also made contributions in both serving and defensive categories.
Highlights
- Wright led the team in kills and digs, while first-year Rachael Hunt (Willow Spring, N.C.) earned the highest attacking percentage.
- Four vixens recorded service aces during the match.
- Peregrine earned the lone block of the match for Sweet Briar.
What's Next
The Vixens will host Bluefield on Sept. 2nd before heading to Shaw on Sept. 6.
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