GAME 1

The Volleyball Team continued to face challenges as they fell to Paul Quinn in a 3-0 match on October 4, 2024. Despite flashes of promise and determination, Southwest couldn't secure a set, ultimately losing 20-25, 24-26, and 15-25.

A Hard-Fought Battle

The Lady Mustangs entered the game with hopes of improving their 1-9 season record but were met by a Paul Quinn team that proved too tough to overcome. In the first set, Southwest started slow, falling behind early but managed to rally with some impressive plays, including kills from key players like Danna Gamez and Aneesa Thompson. Despite their efforts, Paul Quinn's balanced attack and consistent play allowed them to take the first set 25-20.

Southwest came out stronger in the second set, tightening up their defense and pushing Paul Quinn to the limit. A standout moment came from Starlett Hoyuela, who contributed with three service aces and strong setting throughout the game. However, after an intense back-and-forth, Paul Quinn edged out a 26-24 win.

The final set saw Southwest struggle with consistency, as errors piled up and they couldn't regain their rhythm, leading to a 25-15 finish in favor of Paul Quinn.

Positives to Build On

Despite the loss, several players put in solid performances that the team can build upon. Danna Gamez led Southwest with 8 kills and a .174 hitting percentage, while Starlett Hoyuela played a pivotal role, with 16 assists and 3 service aces. Additionally, Alyssa Barrera provided a defensive spark with 12 digs.

The Lady Mustangs showed moments of resilience, especially during their comeback attempt in the second set. 

Looking Ahead

While the season has been a tough one for the Lady Mustangs, this team has the potential to turn things around. With a focus on improving their attack efficiency and minimizing mistakes, they can continue to grow as a unit. 

GAME 2

Southwest volleyball team faced another tough loss on October 5, 2024, in a four-set battle against Paul Quinn, losing 12-25, 25-23, 22-25, and 17-25. Despite a solid second set, Southwest could not maintain the momentum, dropping to 1-9 on the season and 1-7 in conference play.

A Shaky Start

The first set was a difficult one for Southwest, as errors piled up early. Paul Quinn's Carrie Weston led a fierce attack, finishing the match with 25 kills, making it difficult for Southwest to gain any traction. The team struggled to find their rhythm, managing only 7 kills compared to 10 errors, leading to a negative hitting percentage of -.083 in the first set. Paul Quinn comfortably took the set 25-12.

Southwest Rallies in the Second Set

The Lady Mustangs showed resilience in the second set, coming out with improved play and a more organized attack. Amaiya Williams and Danna Gamez provided key kills, and the team cut down on their errors. Starlett Hoyuela played a pivotal role with 19 assists and an ace. Southwest fought hard to secure a narrow 25-23 win, showing their potential when they manage to limit mistakes.

Back-and-Forth Struggle in the Third Set

The third set was a tight contest, with both teams exchanging leads throughout. Southwest fought back from an early deficit, but Paul Quinn capitalized on some late errors from the visiting team to edge out a 25-22 victory. While Southwest managed 9 kills in the set, costly mistakes, including service errors and attack errors, tipped the balance in Paul Quinn's favor.

Unable to Close the Gap

In the fourth and final set, Southwest couldn't keep up the pace. Despite standout performances from players like Aniya Odom, who contributed 7 kills and solid defense, Paul Quinn pulled away with a 25-17 win to seal the match. Southwest's hitting percentage dropped back to .000 in the last set, and they struggled to regain the momentum they had briefly captured in the second set.

Positive Takeaways

Despite the loss, Southwest showed flashes of solid play, particularly in the second and third sets. Danna Gamez led the team with 9 kills, while Alyssa Barrera contributed 13 digs on defense. Maya Morales also chipped in with 11 digs and 2 service aces. The team will need to work on consistency and cutting down errors, but their ability to stay competitive in stretches shows that they have the potential to bounce back.

Looking Ahead

The Lady Mustangs continue to search for their second win of the season. With improvements in certain areas, such as limiting errors and refining their attack, the team has opportunities to turn things around in their upcoming matches. The fight they showed in the second set is a promising sign as they prepare for the rest of the season.

Although the loss to Paul Quinn was a setback, the team can learn from the match and focus on their strengths to build toward future success.

The Volleyball Team will be back in action October 8 as they travel to Plainview, Texas to take on the Wayland Batisit Pioneers.