Lady Atlanteans Open Season with Hard-Fought Battle Against FMU
The Atlantis University women’s volleyball team made its official season debut last Tuesday, squaring off against a formidable Florida Memorial University squad. Despite showing grit and determination, the Lady Atlanteans dropped the match in straight sets, 25–24, 25–23, and 25–17.
| Final | 1 | 2 | 3 | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
14 | 13 | 16 | 0 |
|
|
25 | 25 | 25 | 3 |
Team Stats
Florida Memorial University
| Game Statistics | Atlantis University | Florida Memorial University |
|---|---|---|
| Hitting % | .190 | .000 |
| Blocks | 8.5 | 0.0 |
| Digs | 6 | 0 |
| Aces | 3 | 0 |
FMU controlled much of the tempo, displaying athletic dominance at the net and sharp execution in transition. Their attacking power set the tone early, with standout performances from outside hitter Ariadna Sands, who consistently found gaps in the defense, and vice-captain D'siree Matos, whose strong net presence and creative shots kept AU's back row under constant pressure.
The Lady Atlanteans, however, refused to fold. After a hesitant start in the opening set, they battled back to keep the scoreline tight, showing flashes of chemistry and resilience. Libero Alejandra Luzardo anchored the defense with her trademark quickness and poise. At the same time, outside hitter Shavares IA marked a memorable return to the court. After more than five years away from volleyball, having excelled as a quarterback on AU's flag football team, she delivered a steady performance that energized her teammates.
Head Coach Julian acknowledged both the positives and the challenges from the opener. "We competed against a very experienced program," he said. "Our players showed heart, but we need to cut down on unforced errors and finish rallies with more consistency." With lessons learned from their first outing, the Lady Atlanteans are preparing for another tough test. Their next matchup comes on September 20, when they travel to face Webber International University. This seasoned program will demand focus, discipline, and continued growth from AU's young squad.
