Stevens Ducks Men’s Volleyball Triumphs in Tri-Match

In an impressive display of skill and teamwork, the No. 2 Stevens Institute of Technology men’s volleyball team showcased their prowess during a hard-fought tri-match over the weekend. It was an exhilarating day of volleyball as the Ducks faced off against Wheaton College (Mass.) and Wentworth Institute of Technology, emerging victorious in both encounters.

Match Overview

Stevens, having a record of 12-2, dominated Wheaton with a commanding 3-0 victory, winning sets 25-16, 25-20, and 25-19. They followed up with another straight-set win against Wentworth, taking it 25-15, 25-18, and 25-23. The Ducks’ performances were not only a demonstration of their offensive capabilities but also highlighted a resilient defense that helped snuff out any momentum their opponents tried to build.

Highlights Against Wheaton

The match against Wheaton was marked by intense rallies and strategic plays. The Ducks initially faced a challenge, trailing 7-6 in the first set. However, they quickly reclaimed control with a defining 8-2 run. This surge was propelled by standout performances from players like Jacob Lobdell, who contributed two crucial blocks, and Cade Allen, who capped the rally with a powerful kill.

As the match progressed, the Ducks maintained their momentum, winning the first set decisively after a string of final points capped off by a double-block from Lobdell and Allen. The second set saw a tightly contested back-and-forth battle. The Ducks pulled ahead with a three-point lead, thanks to a decisive kill from Phillip Bone, before closing out the set with strong plays, including a final kill from Holden Findley.

The third and final set initially saw Wheaton taking a lead at 9-4 before the Ducks answered back with a 6-1 run. Players like Bennett Heydorn and Allen were instrumental in turning the tide. Stevens capped the match with six of the last seven points, emphasizing their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.

Key Performances

The match statistics were impressive. Lobdell boasted an outstanding hitting percentage of .733, scoring 12 kills along with a team-leading six blocks. Allen followed closely, recording 11 kills, five digs, and five blocks. Defensively, Bone shone with seven digs, while Heydorn, Titus Rodz, and Alfredo Bolado each contributed four digs.

A Close Encounters with Wentworth

In their matchup against the Wentworth Leopards, the Ducks began on the offensive, establishing an early 6-3 lead. After the Leopards attempted to narrow the gap, Stevens launched an overwhelming 11-1 run that left Wentworth struggling to keep pace. This phase featured successful block assists from Ryan Schmid and Nick Schmidt.

In set two, the Ducks came out firing on all cylinders, quickly racing to a 5-0 advantage. Stiemer was particularly noteworthy, scoring multiple kills that helped maintain the lead. Despite Wentworth’s effort to combat Stevens’ dominance, they couldn’t secure a set win, as the Ducks executed their plays with precision and determination.

The third set provided more nail-biting moments as Wentworth tied the score several times, threatening to push the match to a fourth set. However, Stevens held firm and capitalized on critical defensive plays, including a block from Li and Olcott, sealing the match with a final score that reflected their tenacity and skill.

Inside the Box Scores

Against Wheaton:

• Lobdell: 12 kills, 6 blocks, .733 hitting percentage
• Allen: 11 kills, 5 digs, 5 blocks
• Bone: 7 digs, contributing defensively alongside teammates

Against Wentworth:

• Stiemer: 13 kills, 3 blocks
• Li: 6 blocks, leading defensively
• Hoke: Perfect attack with 8 kills, achieving no errors
• Schmidt: Handled 33 assists, displaying great playmaking skills

Anticipating the Next Match

Looking ahead, the Ducks are set to clash with NYU on March 3, with the first serve scheduled for 7:00 PM. Fans can expect another thrilling matchup as Stevens aims to continue their winning streak and solidify their standing in the season. With a combination of experienced talent and emerging players, the Ducks’ roster presents a formidable challenge to any opponent. This anticipation only adds to the excitement as the season progresses.