Volley Cats Lose Conference Opener

LEBANON, Tenn. – Bethel University volleyball dropped a straight-set decision to Cumberland University on Thursday afternoon inside Dallas Floyd Phoenix Arena. The Wildcats fell by scores of 25-12, 25-15, and 25-17.

Bethel (3-4, 0-1) struggled to find offensive rhythm, finishing the match with a .009 hitting percentage. Sophomore Katie Pennington paced the attack with 10 kills on 36 swings, while Emma Fistarol and Kennedi Morrison added three kills apiece. Setter Mackenzie McCammon tallied 10 assists, and Camila Sandoval chipped in eight. Defensively, Sara Ulrich anchored the back row with 12 digs, while Clara Sestini added 13.

Cumberland (15-6, 1-0) showcased a balanced offense, hitting .216 as a team and spreading the attack among several players. Lila Cade led the Phoenix with nine kills, while Alei Roper and Haley Mitchell each contributed six. Setter Carlee Rogers orchestrated the offense with 23 assists to go along with 15 digs. The Phoenix were strong from the service line, collecting 18 aces in the match, including four from Emma Carter.

The Wildcats will look to regroup as they continue their road stretch, while Cumberland extended its strong start to the season in front of 206 fans.