Virginia State swept Elizabeth City State 3-0 on Monday, Nov. 3 at the Multi-purpose Center. The Trojans completed senior night with an intense and decisive victory.
The Trojans came out strong in all three sets, showing energy and teamwork from start to finish. Their serves and defense kept Elizabeth City constantly adjusting to poor passes, while consistent communication and powerful hits helped VSU control the pace of the match. With this win, the team displayed how their hard work and chemistry have paid off throughout the season.
Gracie Darville a sophomore from Woodbridge VA, led the game with 8 kills, keeping VSU’s score steadily on top by at least 8 points in each set, with the help of setter Leila Jackson, a junior from Texas, with 3 Aces.
“I think the key to our success this season has been through a consistent routine of film, going through every rotation, seeing what we can do better and applying it during practice,” Jackson said. “We also spend a lot of time together off the court, so having a sisterly bond helps us produce so much on the court. Our win on Monday meant so much to us. With Gracie out with an injury as well, we wanted to win not only for our seniors but for her as well. Our seniors have put so much into this program, so being able to pull a 3-0 win on their special night was the least we could do for them.”
The Trojans’ victory was more than just another win; it was an emotional send-off for their seniors and a confidence boost heading into the final stretch of the season.
Although Elizabeth City State didn’t take the win this game, they still had some key contribution from players. Jorja Hoffman a junior from White Rock, Canada, came through with 7 kills as well as Clarke Blakemore a senior from Knoxville, Tennessee, with 4 kills. They kept their confidence up even under intense pressure to win the game.
With this victory VSU ends the night on a high note, celebrating not only their seniors but also the unity that has carried them through the game and the season.
The Trojans’ 3-0 sweep over Elizabeth City showcased their growth, discipline, and determination as they continue to build momentum heading into the remainder of the CIAA schedule.
As the teams moves forward, their bond on and off the court remains the driving force behind their success and resilience.
Although the Trojans dropped their last two matches on the road to Virginia Union and Bowie State, they still finished at 8-2 in the Northern Division. The Trojans ended the season at 13-11 and 12-4 in the conference. Their record meant that they are the regular season co-champion of the Northern Divisions sharing the title with Virginia Union. They play against Livingstone in the semifinal round of the CIAA Tournament in Bowie, MD, on Friday, Nov. 21 at 11 a.m.
