NEW LONDON, Conn. --

In their 9th consecutive victory in the matchup, Coast Guard defeated Merchant Marine 3-0(25-20, 25-10, 25-18). The Bears, who have dominated the all-time history 25-2, get the Academy off to a 1-0 start in the 2024-25 Superintendents Trophy standings. The loss drops USMMA to 3-2 on the season. The Mariners will next face Dean at home, Saturday at 1 PM. 

After a devastating loss to Amherst on Sunday, CGA bounced back in a big way. Sophomore setter Sophia Rosenberg(Lebanon, PA) had a career high 25 assists in the victory with Mackenzie Murnane(Castle Hayne, NC) also notching 11. The pair of sophomore's favorite target on the day was junior middle Allie Wildsmith(Bainbridge Island, WA) who had a season high 15 kills in dominating fashion. Her .500 attack percentage led the team as well. Wildsmith was also able to send the Mariners attacks away with five blocks on the day. Shannon Shaw(Torrance, CA) added eight kills with Julia Gallinger(Garrison, NY) adding seven. Sophomore hitter Abigail Schweitzer(Emmaus, PA) made the most of her one set played with four kills. 

Reigning NEWMAC defender of the week Kaela France(Calhan, CO) proved why she deserved such an honor with a season high 30 digs in the match. Behind France in digs was Mackenzie Murnane with eight followed by four women with five: Vickie Mancine(Chicago, IL), Julia Gallinger, Courtney Shire(Bethlehem, PA), and Laila Baameur(Bakersfield, CA). 

The victory moves the Bears to 5-3 on the season. They will next host Worcester State(11 AM) and Conn College(3 PM) in the Bear and Camel Invite on Saturday September 14th.