Connolley, Coles Power Statesmen Past Pitt in Four Sets

SOUTH PRINCE GEORGE, VA — The No. 14 Richard Bland College Women's Volleyball team continued its strong start to the 2025 campaign with a 3-1 road victory over Pitt Community College on Thursday evening. The Statesmen rallied after dropping the opening set, winning by scores of 14-25, 28-26, 25-14, and 25-15 to improve to 8-2 overall.

After a slow start in the first set, the Statesmen responded with grit in the second, edging out a thrilling 28-26 win to even the match. From there, Richard Bland seized control, dominating sets three and four behind efficient attacking and balanced defensive play.

Sophomore outside hitter Taelin Connolley once again led the charge, delivering a match-high 19 kills on an impressive .516 hitting percentage while adding 19 digs and two service aces. Freshman middle blocker Clara Coles provided a major spark at the net, tallying 12 kills on a .435 clip to go along with a solo block.

Setter Kaylie Klemm orchestrated the offense with 34 assists, while libero Kristen Mathes anchored the back row with 18 digs. Marisa Furner chipped in four kills, and four blocks, while Aliyah Millner posted seven kills on a blistering .750 hitting percentage.

Defensively, the Statesmen racked up 12 total blocks, frustrating the Pitt attack and controlling the pace after the opening set. Rachelle Martin added 11 assists and two service aces, while Gabrielle Meador contributed eight kills and 10 digs in the all-around effort.

With the win, the Statesmen improve to 8-2 overall. Richard Bland will return home on Tuesday, September 16, to host Virginia Union University. First serve is set for 6:00pm in Statesman Hall.

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