The Utica volleyball team emerged victorious against Watkins in their first game of the season, held at Utica's home court. The match concluded with a 3-1 victory for the home team.
According to the game report, Utica started slowly, losing the first set 21-25. However, they regained momentum in the second set, defeating the Warriors 25-9 to even the score. Emily Ritzer, a junior, was instrumental in this comeback with sixteen kills, the highest number recorded by any player during the match. This energy carried into the third set, where Utica secured a 25-13 win, putting them ahead 2-1.
In a closely contested final set, Utica clinched victory with a score of 30-28.
Ritzer was not alone in her efforts on opening night in the Licking County League. Macie Ellis and Makena Wilson contributed significantly with seven kills each.
Defensively, senior libero Madison Yates made seventeen digs over four sets. Ritzer also added three blocks to her offensive contributions.
Watkins players delivered notable performances as well. Morgan Cumbo achieved ten kills while Sophia Zamora made twenty-nine digs.
Both teams' setters played pivotal roles; Leigha Burnett provided thirty assists for Utica and Ellah Bigham had twenty-two for Watkins.
