GEORGETOWN, TEXAS -  The Southwestern University volleyball team delivered a statement victory Friday night inside the Robertson Center, defeating No. 9 nationally ranked Trinity University, 3–1 (13–25, 25–21, 25–19, 25–21). The Pirates handed the Tigers their first Southern Athletic Association (SAA) loss of the season, snapping an 11-match winning streak and clinching a spot in the upcoming SAA Tournament. With the win, Southwestern improves to 17–5 overall and 9–2 in SAA play, powered by a balanced offensive effort and a relentless defensive presence at the net.

Head Coach Don Flora praised his team's composure and collective effort in the upset victory, noting how the energy inside the Robertson Center played a key role in the Pirates' success. Flora said that being in their home environment and feeling the "Pirates for Pirates" support lifted the team tremendously throughout the match. He highlighted the group's defensive execution, both at the net and behind the block, against a potent Trinity attack and commended their ability to stay disciplined and execute the game plan over four sets of high-level volleyball. Flora also pointed to standout performances on both sides of the ball, noting that Kendall Jurgens, Brooklyn Spikes, and Lily McWhorter were instrumental in sustaining the team's blocking and defensive presence, while Chloe Blanchard and Tatum Ahrens carried a significant offensive load with poise and consistency.

GAME HIGHLIGHTS

• Chloe Blanchard led the Pirates' attack with 15 kills, a milestone performance that pushed her past 200 career kills. 

• Freshman Tatum Ahrens contributed 13 kills and a strong defensive showing with 19 digs, and Brooklyn Spikes was dominant at the net with a match-high eight blocks.

• Annika Flora and Taylor Johnson set the tone for the attack, recording 28 and 22 assists, respectively, while Izzy Rodriguez anchored the back row with 23 digs.

GAME NOTES

• The Pirates hit .204 for the match while holding the Tigers to just .133.

• Kendall Jurgens closed out the match with 14 kills, adding a dominant presence at the net with seven blocks. The junior turned in one of her most efficient performances of the season, hitting an impressive .414 with just two errors on 29 attempts.

• Southwestern's best offensive rhythm came in the third set, where the team posted a .293 hitting percentage to seize momentum and never looked back.

UP NEXT 

• The Pirates continue SAA play on the road, traveling to Jackson, Mississippi, to face Millsaps College on Friday, October 31st at 4:00 p.m.