On Friday, March 27, the Elizabethtown College Blue Jays faced off against the Wilkes Colonels in what would prove to be a defining matchup for Etown. What began as a competitive contest quickly turned into a showcase of the Blue Jays’ discipline, energy, and ability to capitalize on momentum. After several close early points, Elizabethtown found their rhythm and never looked back, delivering a commanding performance in front of their home crowd.
Both teams opened the first set playing competitively, trading points and keeping the score close through the early rallies. The Colonels matched the Blue Jays point for point, and the set was tied 8-8 before EtownElizabethtown began to seize control. A kill by Sophomore Braydon Ambruster ignited the Blue Jays and started a six-point scoring streak that shifted the momentum entirely in Etown’s favor. From that point on, the Blue Jays played with confidence and intensity, limiting errors and forcing Wilkes into difficult defensive positions. Elizabethtown closed out the first set in dominant fashion, finishing with a nine-point lead to take the set 25-16.
The second set began with Wilkes showing resilience, as the Colonels scored on their first two serves and looked determined to extend the match. The set continued as a back-and-forth battle, with both teams exchanging points and long rallies keeping the score close through the middle portion of the set. However, the turning point came when Senior outside hitter Logan Smith delivered a powerful kill that once again sparked a strong run for the Blue Jays. Using that momentum, EtownElizabethtown put together another scoring streak, fueled by consistent serving and strong net play. Although Wilkes continued to fight and kept the set competitive, the Blue Jays maintained control and closed out the second set 25-20, taking a 2-0 lead in the match.
With momentum fully on their side, EtownElizabethtown entered the third set prepared to take the win. The Blue Jays wasted no time setting the tone, as Junior outside hitter Mason Boyer opened the set with a strong kill. Wilkes remained persistent and continued to battle for every point, but Elizabethtown’s offense proved too consistent and too powerful. The Blue Jays went on another scoring run midway through the set, effectively putting the match out of reach. With strong serving, disciplined defense, and efficient attacking, EtownElizabethtown closed out the final set 25-15.
With the straight-set victory (3-0), the Blue Jays not only secured an important win but also snapped their three-game losing streak. The Blue Jays’ combination of strong offense, consistent serving, and team chemistry proved to be the difference throughout the match, and the win could serve as a turning point as the team looks ahead to the remainder of the season.
The Blue Jays will take on Drew University on March 28 as they continue conference play.
