SANDUSKY, Ohio - September 2, 2023 - The Hiram women's volleyball team won the second set in both of its matches at the Great Lakes Cross Over on Saturday, showing grit despite falling to Ohio Northern and Grove City at the Cedar Point Sports Complex.

Hiram lost 25-11 to the Polar Bears and 25-13 to the Wolverines in the first set of both matches before bouncing back with strong play in the second set on both occasions. It was a resilient display, as the Terriers challenged a pair of opponents – both of whom had winning records in 2022 – at the neutral location.

Emily Richardson had a team-high 10 kills in Game 1, while Kayla Franks led the way with 12 kills in Game 2. Brooke Fishback had a big day on the defensive end, tallying 17 and 26 digs between the two contests.

Game 1 Recap vs Ohio Northern

The Terriers played their best volleyball in the second set, rattling off four consecutive points on three different occasions. Brooke Norris had five of her nine kills in the second set alone, which included Hiram's 22nd, 23rd and 24th points.

Hiram pushed Ohio Northern again in the fourth set, holding a 12-10 lead thanks to a 5-0 run on the serve of Madison Russell. The remainder of the decisive set had a back-and-forth rhythm, but Ohio Northern would do just enough to hang on for the victory.

Game 2 Recap vs Grove City

About two hours later, Hiram again toed the hardwood in hopes of leveling its season record to 2-2. The team again found its form in the second set, with Franks notching six kills and Andrya Hanmore recording five assists.

Grove City would have three student-athletes with more than 10 assists in the game, a balanced effort that led them to the four-set win.

What's Next

The Terriers will head home and play host to Baldwin Wallace on Wednesday at 7 p.m. from Price Gymnasium.