Salem, Va. — September 5, 2025 — Carolina University volleyball opened play at the Maroon Classic with mixed results, finishing the first day 1-1 after a hard-fought loss to Salem College followed by a decisive victory over Brevard College.

Game One: Salem 3, Carolina 1

The Bruins started strong in their opener, taking the first set 25-18 behind a balanced attack. However, Salem quickly responded, controlling the remainder of the match with set wins of 25-12, 25-12, and 25-15 to close out a 3-1 decision.

Carolina's SarahElizabeth Samuels paced the offense with 12 kills, while Karli Totel contributed seven kills and six digs. Setter Syvannah Poore added 19 assists and two service aces. Defensively, libero Kai Horta anchored the back row with 20 digs.

Game Two: Carolina 3, Brevard 1

Carolina bounced back in its evening match, defeating Brevard in four sets (23-25, 25-22, 25-23, 25-15).

After dropping a tightly contested opening set, the Bruins found their rhythm offensively and controlled the match down the stretch.

Karli Totel led the charge with a team-high 15 kills and 17 digs, while Kammi Naude was highly efficient with 11 kills on a .588 hitting percentage. Samuels also added 12 kills, and Poore orchestrated the offense with 42 assists. Horta again stood out defensively, recording 25 digs.

Coach's Perspective

Head Coach Chelsea Jones praised the team's resilience after the opening setback:

"We showed a lot of character today. The first match was a learning opportunity, but I was really proud of how the team regrouped and played with confidence against Brevard. If we keep that mentality, we'll continue to grow stronger as the season progresses."

Looking Ahead

Carolina University (3-3) will continue play in the Maroon Classic tomorrow, looking to build on its strong finish to Day One. First match is set for 2:00 p.m. against Methodist University, and second match is set for 4:00 p.m. against North Carolina Wesleyan University to conclude the Maroon Classic.