Wildcats Lose Tight Three Set Match to MCLA 3-0
**MCLA Volleyball Triumphs Over Bay Path in Straight Sets**
In an exciting and closely contested matchup at the Amsler Campus Center in North Adams, MA, the MCLA volleyball team secured a decisive 3-0 victory against Bay Path College on September 13, 2025. The victory improved MCLA's record to 6-3 for the season, while Bay Path fell to 2-4.
The match, which lasted nearly an hour and a half, witnessed MCLA dominate the scoreboard with set victories of 25-21, 26-24, and 27-25. The first set saw both teams engage in competitive rallies, but MCLA managed to pull ahead, thanks to their strong offensive and defensive strategies. The following sets were equally intense, with Bay Path pushing MCLA to their limits, but MCLA's consistency and resilience ultimately secured their win.
**Highlights and Key Performers**
Elizabeth Brown led MCLA with an impressive performance, contributing significantly to the team's success. She recorded 11 kills with a hitting percentage of 0.207 and also added five aces to her name. Makenna Carter also played a crucial role, delivering 10 kills with a hitting percentage of 0.227.
Shannon O'Brien was a vital playmaker for MCLA, setting up various attacking opportunities with her 22 assists and further supporting the team with solid defensive efforts, including digs and blocking assists.
On the other side, Anastasiya Tsetsko was a standout for Bay Path, recording 11 kills and a hitting percentage of 0.31, demonstrating significant offensive impact. Michelle Santiago's versatility was on display, contributing not only in attacks but also in serves with six aces.
**Team Efforts and Technical Aspects**
Both teams exhibited strategic plays and tactical depth, with MCLA achieving a higher overall attack percentage of 0.216 compared to Bay Path's 0.168. MCLA's ability to minimize errors and capitalize on Bay Path's mistakes proved crucial in securing their win. Both teams contributed equally to service errors, with MCLA managing just five compared to Bay Path's eight, which affected Bay Path's ability to maintain momentum during critical match points.
The collective efforts of players and strategic guidance from their coaches were key in the eventual outcome witnessed by an attendance of 192 spectators, reflecting strong local support for collegiate volleyball.
This victory not only added to MCLA's winning record but also set a positive tone as they continue their volleyball season in the MASCAC conference.