PEMBROKE, N.C. (Sept. 5, 2026) – The Virginia State University volleyball team split a pair of matches Saturday during Day Two of the UNC Pembroke Invitational, earning a 3-0 victory over Middle Georgia before falling 3-0 to Embry-Riddle (Fla.) at Lumbee Guaranty Bank Court.
VSU 3, Middle Georgia 0
The Trojans opened the day with a strong performance against Middle Georgia, sweeping the Knights by scores of 25-20, 25-18 and 25-19. The victory moved VSU to 2-1 on the season.
Virginia State's offense was led by Gracie Darville, who recorded a match-high 12 kills while hitting an impressive .545. Wynter Hill added eight kills, while Anya McKinley contributed seven kills and Jordan Ellis finished with four.
Defensively, Kellee Craig paced the Trojans with 24 digs, while Peyton Reese added 12 digs and 19 assists. Jiyanna Rivera contributed 10 digs and three service aces as VSU held Middle Georgia to a .087 team hitting percentage.
Embry-Riddle 3, VSU 0
Virginia State closed the day against Embry-Riddle, dropping the match in three sets, 25-20, 25-16 and 25-10.
Darville once again led the Trojans offensively, recording 11 kills on 31 attacks. Jordan Ellis added five kills, while Kyrie Willis contributed four kills and Wynter Hill finished with three.
Reese directed the offense with 13 assists, while Craig led the defensive effort with seven digs. VSU finished the match with 28 kills and a .205 hitting percentage.
The Trojans will now turn their attention to their next tournament, as Virginia State will be back in action Friday, September 11 at the Lock Haven Classic.
