Rutgers Volleyball traveled to Clemson, S.C. last weekend to compete in the Big Orange Bash. This tournament rounded out the Scarlet Knights' non-conference play with results of a 3-1 victory over ETSU and a loss of 3-0 against Clemson.
Rutgers came out strong for their first game as they took down the Buccaneers in four gritty sets. Each set brought its own unique challenges, whether it be the Scarlet Knights managing to pull ahead after a trying tie of 23-23 in the second set, or the Buccaneers fighting back from a 16-22 deficit to win the third set.
Next, the Scarlet Knights approached Clemson with confidence due to their previous win. Rutgers laid everything they had out on the line, but unfortunately, the opposing team was requiring more than Rutgers was able to bring that day. With two close sets of 19-25 that consisted of many traded points and solid play, the Tigers were able to come out on top.
Rutgers ended their non-conference action with an overwhelmingly impressive record of 8-3 overall. This was the best track record that the Scarlet Knights have had since they showed out in 2012.
Shealyn McNamara, a constant stand out for the Scarlet Knights, gives us a little insight as to how the team is feeling going into conference games."Playing the number 20 team and the number 2 team in the nation back-to-back is a definite challenge, but we've been preparing ourselves to play our best. We have improved all through pre-season, so I am looking forward to seeing how we'll continue that improvement through Big Ten play!"
Head Coach, Caitlin Schweihofer looked to challenge her girls and diversify many aspects of the game and line-up to best prepare the Scarlet Knights for a breakout season when non-conference games finally concluded. Follow along to see how Big Ten play pans out!
Up Next For Rutgers Volleyball
Rutgers is set to play No. 20 Penn State on Friday, Sept. 24 and No. 2 Wisconsin on Saturday, Sept. 25. These games will both be played at 7:00 p.m. at the RAC. You can watch and support your Scarlet Knights by tuning into the streaming on Big Ten Plus with Pat Boyle.
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