Simpson Upsets Warriors in Cal Pac Playoffs

Nov. 11, 2009

Rocklin, Calif. – After knocking off Holy Names in the season finale, the William Jessup University volleyball team thought they were ready for California Pacific Conference playoffs.  However, the #4 seed from Simpson University turned up the playoff intensity to upset the Warriors 3-0 in the first round match-up at the Warrior Dome.

Jessup was in trouble from the outset, as the Red Hawks came out with a burst of energy to start the game.  The Red Hawks controlled game one as the jumped out to 7-0 lead to start the game.  The Warriors tried to recover and pulled within striking distance, but eventually lost 25-22.

The Warriors matched the Red Hawks energy in game two as both teams battled back in forth.  The Red Hawks made the plays down the stretch to take game two 25-22.

The Red Hawks found themselves down early in game three to the Warriors.  The Warriors had a comfortable lead late into the game, but the Red Hawks mounted a rally.  Down 21-17, the Red Hawks seem to find all the holes in the Warriors defense as the closed the game out on an 8-1 run to pull the upset of the #3 seeded Warriors.

Sophomore Jennifer McNamara led the Warriors with 13 kills and 17 digs.  Juniors Morgan Saunders and Rachelle Russell finished the match with 33 assist and 8 kills, respectively.

“We had a tremendous year,” stated head coach Terry Stafford.  “It’s disappointing to end the season like this, but to go from winning 3 games last year to 15 this season is a testament to the hard work these girls put in.  This team has set a new standard for William Jessup University volleyball.”

Jessup finished the year with a 15-9 overall and 9-3 conference record.