Jaguar VB team opens with four-set win over Palm Beach Atlantic Univ.

Staff report

Jacklyn Simms had 13 kills and Marin Freeland 10 to lead the Augusta University volleyball team to a four-set win over Palm Beach Atlantic University on Friday, Sept. 6, in the season opener for both teams in Lakeland, Fla.

A sloppy AU team lost the first set 18-25 of this Florida Southern Volleyball Classic match, but then the Jags rallied to take the next three sets by scores of 25-23, 25-16 and 25-12.

Simms is a transfer from West Virginia State, and Freeland is a transfer from Murray State.

They had plenty of help from veterans Sophia Kruczko and Jada Suguturaga, who added nine kills each for the Jaguars.

Augusta hit at .258 clip in the opener, compared to an .058 mark for the Sailfish.

Suguturaga and Madelyn Eden had seven blocks each, while newcomer Guilia Rodrigues, a transfer from UNC-Asheville, had 23 digs. She also had three service aces.

Coach Sharon Quarles used two setters, with Janvier Buggs leading the way with 23 assists. Sophomore Mia Saaverda, who transferred from Spring Hill College, added 17 assists.

Harper Stokes led the Sailfish with 10 kills.

The Jaguars play two matches on Saturday, Sept. 7, starting with Lewis University at 9 a.m. and then host Florida Southern at noon.

The AU volleyball got off to a winning start to the 2024 season by defeating Palm Beach Atlanta in four sets. (photos by Rachel Carman)