Norfolk, VA – Sometimes adversity brings out the best in teams; it just depends on how they react to it.  The past two weeks have tested the Regent University Women's Volleyball team, but as history has shown over the last few years, the Royals have always fought through it and come back stronger.  Tonight, Regent was looking to start this season's turnaround as the Royals welcomed in Washington Adventist University for a non-conference match-up.   

In the first set, Regent made a statement as Freshman Annalise Todd (Raleigh, NC), Freshman Brooklynn Delane (Colonial Beach, VA) and Junior Erin Saunders (Danville, VA) each recorded kills for the early lead.  Freshman Emma Kristiansen (Sparta, NJ) also showed her power at the net, while Freshman Rylee Stewart (Newport News, VA) helped set her teammates up as the Royals won the set, 25-15.  Saunders and Todd continued their dominance in the second set, while Senior Eliana Winn (Albuquerque, NM) showed off her blocking skills at the net.  Stewart would eventually step up to the service line and score six straight points, giving Regent the set 25-6.  The adversity Regent had faced some this season, was front and center in the third set as they found themselves trailing 20-15.  However, after a timeout, Saunders, Stewart, Winn, Delane and Sophomore Madison Hardiman (Memphis, TN) all scored crucial points to come from behind and win the set and the match by a final score of 3-0 (25-21).   

Saunders finished with 11 kills and 4 service aces, while Stewart dished out a team high 27 assists, to go along with her 5 service aces.  In addition, Hardiman and Delane combined for 29 digs (16 and 13) on the night. 

The Royals will be back in action on Saturday, October 18th when they host Sweet Briar College.  First serve is scheduled for 7:00pm