FAIRMONT, W.Va. — Fairmont State University had a successful day at the Fairmont State University Volleyball Classic, securing victories against the University of Virginia's College at Wise and Slippery Rock University.

In the first matchup against UVA Wise, Fairmont State triumphed in four sets, 20-25, 25-16, 25-16, 25-23. After dropping the first set, Fairmont State rallied to win the next three, highlighted by a strong defensive effort with 10 total team blocks. The first set saw UVA Wise take an early lead, with key kills from Mia Poag and Riley Brandon guiding them to a 25-20 win. However, Fairmont State responded in the second set with a decisive 6-0 run led by Josie Nobbe and a service ace from Josie Skinn, ultimately winning the set 25-16. The Falcons continued to dominate in the third set, propelled by a 6-0 run of their own, leading to another 25-16 victory.

The fourth set was a nail-biter, with Fairmont State overcoming a resilient effort from UVA Wise to secure the final set 25-23. Notable performances included Joey Borelle's impactful 16 kills and 15 digs, contributing 18.5 total points. Josie Skinn was pivotal in defense, recording 19 digs, while Nobbe added 10 kills and five blocks. Zemba also excelled defensively, tallying seven blocks.

Later in the day, Fairmont State faced Slippery Rock and emerged victorious again, winning the match 3-1 with set scores of 16-25, 25-19, 25-11, 25-22. The Falcons initially struggled, dropping the first set, but demonstrated resilience in the second. A service ace by Grace DeVall catalyzed a 6-0 run, leading to a 25-19 win in that set. Fairmont State dominated the third set, winning 25-11, with strong contributions from McKenzi Martin and Cayden Anschutz.

The fourth set was competitive, with both teams exchanging leads until Fairmont State closed the match with a 25-22 victory. Joey Borelle led the team with 17 digs and 19 points, while McKenzi Martin shone with 17 kills and a .344 hitting percentage. Josie Skinn's defensive play was significant, leading the team with 27 digs, and both Borelle and McKenzi Martin were named to the All-Tournament Team, alongside Skinn, who was awarded Tournament MVP.

Fairmont State (4-0) welcomes Walsh University to Joe Retton Arena on Tuesday, September 9. First serve between the two squads is set for 6:00 p.m.