UTICA, N.Y. – With an outstanding crowd on hand to help support SUNYIT Volleyball's 3rd Annual "Dig Pink" event in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Wildcats did not disappoint (20-12) in garnering their 20th victory of the season. After a rocky first set, SUNYIT rolled over the Lakers of Oswego State (6-18) in the second and third sets.
The Wildcats wore pink jerseys to signify the event, and after the match those jerseys were auctioned off with the proceeds going to promote breast cancer research and awareness.
"It's a great event," said Wildcat Coach Jake Bluhm, "Obviously it all goes to a great cause, but you can see it really builds team unity as well."
Perhaps a bit jittery due to the buzz generated by the event, the Wildcats struggled in the first set, registering their lowest hitting percentage of the night at .135. Somehow they regained their composure, though, and a great serve at 24-23 by Hanne Saarinen (Lempaala, Finland/Tampereen Lyseon Lukio) ultimately led to a Wildcat point and 1 game to 0 advantage.
That was as close as the Lakers would come all night, as SUNYIT settled down and cruised through the second two sets, 25-10 and 25-12. Senior and current NEAC Athlete of the Week for Women's Volleyball Juleah Vedder (Dolgeville, N.Y./Dolgeville) led the team with 15 kills and 16 digs, but the junior Saarinen stole the show with 10 kills on just 15 totals attacks and 2 errors, good for a .533 kill-percentage.
The Wildcats next match is TBA. Check the website for updates.
