Pfeiffer Volleyball Falls in Home Opener

MISENHEIMER, N.C. (Sept. 16, 2025) — Pfeiffer University dropped its USA South Conference opener Tuesday evening, falling in straight sets to visiting Salem College (N.C.), 25-21, 25-17, 25-13 at Merner Gym.

Despite the loss, Pfeiffer (2-7, 0-1 USA South) showed flashes of promise, particularly in the opening set where the Falcons battled through five ties and two lead changes. Senior Haedyn McGrath led the offense with nine kills on a .381 hitting percentage, while Madison Tate and Ariyan Ford chipped in five kills apiece.

Setter Karmen Rion paced Pfeiffer's ball distribution with 12 assists and added three service aces. Libero Gabby Edwards anchored the back row with a team-high 11 digs.
Pfeiffer recorded 32 kills and seven aces as a team, but struggled to maintain consistency, hitting just .196 overall and committing 12 attack errors.

Salem (9-2, 1-0 USA South) countered with a balanced attack, led by Aspen Bradley's 17 kills and a .615 hitting percentage. The Spirits hit .372 as a team and out-dug Pfeiffer 47-43.

The Falcons will return to play on Saturday, Sept. 20 when they travel to Buena Vista, Va. for a USA South tri-match.  Pfeiffer will take on host Southern Virginia at 11:00 a.m. and will then play William Peace at approximately 1:00 p.m.