From NYU Athletics

The New York University women's volleyball team produced a resounding victory in its opening match of the NCAA Division III Tournament, sweeping Westfield State University on Thursday, November 10.

Hosted by Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT, the eighth-ranked Violets cruised to a 25-8, 25-18, 25-17 sweep of the Owls.

"It was great to be back in the NCAA Tournament after last year's successful season," said head coach Andrew Brown. "Due to the experience we've gained playing in the tournament and having played such a strong schedule, we can go out there and play with a lot of confidence."  

NYU set the tone right from the beginning, scoring the first seven points of the match and easing to the 17-point victory in a dominant opening set.

Things were much tighter in the second set as Westfield State led early. The Violets came back to take a four-point lead, 15-11, but the Owls hung in and went ahead 18-17. However, Westfield State did not score again as NYU recorded the final eight points of the set. 

The Violets never trailed in the final set, opening up leads as large as eight points. An attack error by the Owls ended the match.  

Lindsey Hirano, who finished the match with 17 digs, has accumulated 696 this season, which has set a new team record. The old mark of 682 digs in a season was set by Kaylee Schanda in 2011. 

"Lindsey is an unbelievable player and an even more amazing libero," Brown explained. "She makes difficult plays look routine. Opponents feel like she's able to predict the attack and put herself in a perfect position to defend."

NYU dominated at the net, out-hitting Westfield State .330-.034. Olivia Lewandowski led the way with 13 kills, Gabriella Spaethling had 11 and Haley Holz added eight, while Spaethling and Leela Anvekar each recorded four blocks.    

Ava Launsbach contributed a career- and match-high 29 assists for the Violets.

"We are excited about advancing in the tournament and having the opportunity to play again tomorrow," Brown added.