Washington, DC  - (9/16/2023) - Gwynedd Mercy University (2-5) traveled to Washington, DC, for today's tri-match at Catholic University. The Griffins competed first against Eastern Mennonite University (3-6, 0-1) and scored a 26-24 second-set victory before succumbing to the Lions in a 3-1 (22-25, 26-24, 14-25, 22-25) conclusion. The Red and Gold did not fare any better versus the hosting Cardinals as Catholic University swept the latter match in decided fashion; 3-0 (25-15, 25-13, 25-16). Freshman outside hitter Kate Etter (Chambersburg, Pa.) (13.0 points; 11 kills, 2 block assists, 1 solo block) and senior outside hitter Bria Purnell (Reading, Pa.) (12.0; 9 kills, 2 aces, 1 solo block) both scored double-digit points against Eastern Mennonite University; the latter scored a team-high eight points (6 kills, 2 aces) against Catholic University.

Griffin Highlights vs. Eastern Mennonite University

• Eastern Mennonite University built their lead early in the first set, 10-5, but were pressured by Gwynedd Mercy University down the stretch of a 25-22 conclusion.
• The Lions carried their momentum into the second set, taking a 16-5 lead before a late Griffin rally put the lead in the Red and Gold's favor, 24-23. A kill from junior middle blocker Lexi Lane (Frederick, Colo.) and an Eastern Mennonite University miscue separated Gwynedd Mercy University for the eventual 26-24 win.
• The Griffins did not have sustained success as the Lions recovered with concluding wins of 25-14 and 25-22.
• Gwynedd Mercy University hit .314 (14K-3E-35TA) in the second set, helping them to a .146 (39K-19E-137TA) success rate for the match.
• Etter made a team-high 15 digs in excess of her 13 points. She scored 11 kills, two block assists, and a solo block.
• Purnell accumulated her dozen points with nine kills, two aces, a solo block. She also made nine digs.
• Sophomore setter Ayanna Gaston (Middletown, Del.) provided one kills, 22 assists, two aces, a block assist, and nine digs.
• The Griffins totaled nine aces and seven blocks.

Griffin Highlights vs. Catholic University

• Gwynedd Mercy University had their best set in the second frame with a .095 (5K-3E-21TA) hitting percentage.
• Purnell had the most success with 6 kills and two aces. She also recorded also recorded a dig.
• Gaston totaled 11 assists and five digs.
• Junior libero Maddie Stancil led the defensive effort with 10 digs.

Gwynedd Mercy University returns to the Griffin Complex on Wednesday, September 20, when they host Bryn Athyn College for a 7:00 p.m. match.