Pembroke, N.C. (Sept. 13, 2025) – Virginia State University wrapped up volleyball play at the Lumbee Guaranty Bank Court on Saturday, dropping a 3–0 decision to Eckerd College (12-25, 20-25, 22-25) then dropped a five-set match to Coker University 3-1 (25-20, 22-25,24-26, 6-15). 

VSU fought back in each set against Eckerd, with Gracie Darville leading the way offensively with 9 kills, while Skylar Johnson added 5 kills and 4 digs. Celene Mclean provided an efficient spark with 3 kills on just 6 swings, while Kellee Craig anchored the defense with 18 digs. Setter Leila Jackson contributed 11 assists and a service ace, keeping the Trojan offense balanced. 

The Trojans put a strong performance against the Cobras but fell just short in the fifth set. Darville once again shined, finishing with a match-high 19 kills and 13 digs, while Mclean added 7 kills and 12 digs. Johnson chipped in 8 kills and 9 digs, and Amaya Cooper led the defensive effort at the net with 8 blocks to go with 7 kills. 

In the back row, Craig was outstanding, tallying a team-high 22 digs, while Jackson and Peyton Reese combined for 37 assists to pace the offense. The Trojans totaled 52 kills, 69 digs, and 8 service aces in the contest. 

Virginia State (1-7) will be back in action Thursday September 25 against Bowie State University inside the MPC.