The Utica College volleyball team went 2-2 over the weekend at the Potsdam State Tournament. The Pioneers opened the weekend with a 3-1 win over Potsdam on Friday before falling to Buffalo State 3-1 in the late game. On Saturday UC opened the day with a 3-0 loss to Middlebury but bounced right back and defeated Oswego State 3-1. Sophomore Chloe Pierce totaled a team-high 44 kills in 15 games over the weekend.

In its first match of four, Utica College won 3-1 against Potsdam. Sophomore outside hitter Chloe Pierce (Toronto, ONT) led the Pioneers with 15 kills and 16 digs. Sophomore setter Miranda Austin (Castorland NY) totaled 33 assists with six digs. This win marked the first for UC against Potsdam after losing 2-1 in 2008 and 3-1 in 2005.

After losing its second match to Buffalo 3-1 and its third match to Middlebury 3-0, The Pioneers revived themselves with a 3-1 victory over Oswego State. Senior middle hitter Brielle Swerdlin (Chester, NJ) led this victory with 13 kills and four digs. Chole Pierce also had 13 kills. Senior outside hitter Melissa Austin (Castorland) tallied 10 kills along with three digs.

Utica College tournament leaders for all four matches: Chole Pierce led UC with a total of 44 kills and 29 digs. Brielle Swerdlin had 33 kills and 12 digs. Melissa Austin finished with 25 kills and 19 digs.

The Pioneers return to the hardwood Wednesday against Hamilton College at Alumni Gymnasium at 7 p.m. Utica College is 1-4 versus Hamilton in the last four years. UC last beat Hamilton College 3-2 back in 2007.


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