Kingston, R.I. – The Fordham volleyball team needed to win just one set at Rhode Island in the regular season finale to secure a second straight berth into the Atlantic 10 Championship. Despite the result, the Rams' third-set victory was all they needed for their first back-to-back postseason berths since 2007-08. Fordham finishes the 2021 regular season with an 8-19 record overall and 5-11 in league action.
"I know the record doesn't reflect it, but this team has put both the physical and emotional labor in all season and I'm very proud of every single one of them." Head coach
Ian Choi said, "Four injuries in four weeks certainly takes a toll not only on the individual but the entire team dynamic, as well. Overcoming this much adversity was definitely not on the docket but it has resulted in tremendous growth for the team. The competitive culture is cementing itself, forming a foundation of success for ensuing classes. Each Ram on this squad should be proud of their contribution. We're excited to see what we can do in Pittsburgh."
This season's Championship, hosted by Duquesne, will begin this Friday, November 19. The Rams will play third-seeded Saint Louis on 5 p.m. Winner of that game will play VCU on Saturday at 4 p.m.
The hosts took the first two sets, 25-15 and 25-13, before the Rams took the third, 25-19. Overall, Fordham hit .123 with 22 errors in attack, but posted a match-high 11 blocks and were tied with four aces.
Bella Ureña led the offense with 14 kills, adding 12 digs, while
Aria De La Rosa posted 12 kills at a team-high clip of .375, and sharing the team-lead with
Chloe Pejouan and
Whitley Moody with five blocks. Moody chipped in nine kills, as well.
Makaela Tanaka came off the bench after
Megan Brzozowski suffered an injury on the opening play and racked up 36 assists and 14 digs, plus three blocks and a kill.
Mallory Lipski tallied a team-high 21 digs and two aces.
Ryan Naumann reached double figure digs again, with 10 off the bench.
