Christopher Newport University’s (CNU) women’s volleyball team continued its dominant season on Saturday afternoon with a commanding 3-0 sweep over Washington and Lee University (W&L) at the Freeman Center. The Captains improved to 19-7 on the year, marking their second win of the season against a talented W&L squad they defeated earlier in October.
The match began with an unforgettable moment before the first serve. When technical difficulties prevented the national anthem from playing over the speakers, the CNU players took matters into their own hands. Standing arm in arm, they counted in and sang the anthem themselves, earning applause from fans and setting a tone of focus and unity that carried through all three sets.
A Confident Start
From the opening whistle, CNU displayed energy and sharp execution. The Captains maintained steady first contacts and relied on their offensive creativity to stay in control. Despite committing eight attack errors in the opening frame, their aggressiveness proved decisive. CNU never trailed after the midway point of the set and closed it out 25-17 without calling a single timeout.
Head coach Lindsay Birch praised the team’s early composure and aggressive style. “I thought we were playing great,” Birch said. “We were being aggressive, and I wanted them to keep that mindset.”
Building Momentum
The second set began with both teams trading points, but CNU quickly took command behind consistent serving runs from Fielding Croft and Emmy Carpeendo. The Generals called timeouts trailing 12-7 and 24-14, yet could not slow CNU’s rhythm. Simara Alexander led the offensive surge with 15 kills on a .520 hitting percentage, supported by strong ball placement from Croft. The Captains closed the set 25-15 and entered the third with complete control.
“I think the biggest thing was how well me and my setter were connecting,” Alexander said. “When that connection is there, it opens up the whole court. We also scouted really well, so I knew where to attack.”
Total Team Execution
Everything clicked in the third set. Up 11-5 early, the Captains exploited the defensive gaps of W&L with precise placement and relentless energy. The Generals used both of their timeouts trailing 12-5 and 19-6, but CNU’s balance and focus never wavered. Avery Hanly and Croft contributed crucial serving runs that kept W&L on the defensive. Libero Maddie Haines anchored the back row with excellent ball control and passing consistency, helping the Captains secure the final set 25-15.
Coach Birch highlighted the overall team effort after the match. “Simara’s readiness to swing was unbelievable, and our serving runs from Fielding, Emmy, and Avery were impressive,” she said. “Maddie also had a great game. This group knows how to stay composed and play for each other.”
Looking Ahead
The win against W&L marked another step forward in CNU’s pursuit of postseason success. The Captains will return to action next weekend for a home triple-header that will conclude with senior night against Roanoke College.
Birch reflected on the upcoming celebration, emphasizing the impact of her senior leaders. “This group has been special,” she said. “They have maintained a great culture, been great teammates, and led on and off the court. What they bring to this program can’t always be measured, but we would not be who we are today without them.”
As the Captains left the court singing, smiling, and surrounded by fans, the evening felt like more than just another win. It was a reflection of teamwork, confidence, and a collective belief that has defined this season from the very first serve.
