Volleyball off to 4-0 start after sweeping Iona

Following an undefeated start in the Hofstra Invitational, the Hofstra University Volleyball team left home for the first time to sweep the Iona University Gaels 3-0 on Tuesday, Aug. 29.

Beatriz Alves led the Pride’s defense with 26 assists and 13 digs while adding one ace. Yagmur Cinel filled up the stat sheet, recording a team-leading 11 kills, 2.5 blocks and three service aces.

The Pride got out to an early 14-6 advantage in the first set, forcing multiple Iona timeouts. However, Hofstra errors allowed the Gaels to narrow the deficit before the Pride finished the set out 25-17. The Pride were able to capitalize on 10 Iona errors while holding the Gaels to a hitting percentage of -.083.

The second set started in the same stride for the Pride when they jumped out to a quick 7-1 lead. Hofstra were on the attack for much of the set finishing the frame with 14 kills and a .290 hitting percentage.

An Iona timeout while Hofstra was leading 13-7 reset the momentum for the Gaels, allowing them to tie the set at 16. However, a succession of quick kills from sophomore Clara Bal and senior Yagmur Cinel earned the Pride a 22-18 lead. Despite the scare, Hofstra finished the set 25-19.

The Pride completed the sweep with a 25-18 win, courtesy of Cinel’s match-sealing kill.

Beatriz Alves who led the Pride racking up 26 total assists and 13 digs, while adding 1 ace. As well, Yagmur Cinel filled up the stat sheet recording a team leading 11 kills, 2.5 blocks, and 3 aces.

The Pride kept their perfect start intact, moving to 4-0 on the young season. The Gaels fall to 1-3. Hofstra’s next appearance will be in Storrs, Conn. to take part in the 2023 UConn Tournament starting on Friday, Sept. 1 at 7 p.m.

Photo courtesy of GamedayPhotosNYC