After a tough game against James Madison University on Monday night, the Elon University women’s volleyball came to the court ready to play on Thursday against William & Mary. 

The Phoenix came out strong to win the first two sets 25-18 and 25-22. After a very close battle in the third set, the Tribe took the third set, 25-23. The Phoenix continued to fight back, won the fourth set 25-20 to defeat the Tribe. Elon is now 12-6 on the season. 

“Our offense tonight was really really good but we also struggled defending them, especially in sets two and sets three,” said head coach Mary Tendler. “They were really pushing us, and we wanted to finish strong with consistent effort throughout the match and consistent energy. We do that pretty well, but trying to get that is hard.”

Tendler also highlighted freshman Kodi Garcia who helped bring the Phoenix back after the third set. 

“She had 60 assists, as a setter, which is really really high. You don’t usually see 60 assists in a five set match.” 

Garcia’s 60 assists and 4 sets were complimented by a season high in kills as a team for Elon. The Phoenix finished the game with a total of 68, beating their previous season high of 65. 

“We go on the road now, so it’s good to get some wins at home,” Tendler said. “We’ve had four matches in seven days, so that’s really tough. Now we get to see how we do on the road, and bring the momentum from this win into the next weekend.”

Elon travels to North Carolina Central University on Tuesday at 6 p.m. for its next match. The Phoenix defeated the Eagles 3-1 earlier in the season.