Congratulations to the 2023 Oxford Blackhawks Volleyball seniors! Pictured from L to R: Lizzy Knapp, Brianna Fowlston, Leah Oliver, Ava Benjamin, Mya-Rae Roys, and Quinnlin LaMonica. (Submitted Photo).

OXFORD – It wasn’t easy but the Oxford Blackhawks volleyball team pushed through to take the 3-1 victory over Bainbridge-Guilford on Tuesday. All four matches were close, including a two-point third set, which Oxford took 27-25 as well as a crucial final set by a score of 25-22.

Prior to the start of the match, Oxford honored its six seniors. Congratulations to Lizzy Knapp, Brianna Fowlston, Leah Oliver, Ava Benjamin, Mya-Rae Roys, and Quinnlin LaMonica.

It was a big moment for Oxford’s Lizzy Knapp as she suffered an injury the first week of practices, but was able to play a part in the special night.

“Since this was her senior night, we were able to get her doctor to clear her to serve in her walking boot and remain off the court so the five remaining girls could play the point out,” said coach Kim Martin. “In her first game of the season, she aced the last winning point in the fourth game bringing everyone to their feet. It was the perfect way to end the league play season.”

Aside from that big moment, Oxford was happy to pick up the big league win to improve to 8-1 on the season with upcoming non-league contests.

Setter Ava Benjamin paved the way with 22 assists and had two aces. Mya-Rae Roys picked up three aces and four kills while Quinnlin LaMonica pushed through with two aces, seven kills, and two blocks.

Emerson LaMonica contributed with seven kills as Emmalee Reiss and Leah Oliver both had three kills in the win.

Kaylynn Crandall led the Bobcats with 16 assists and tied with Allie Cafasso as both ladies had 13 digs. Crandall also had five aces as teammate Alyssa Finch picked up four aces and five kills. Cafasso finished with four kills as Peyton Umbra led the team with eight kills in the loss.

Oxford (8-1) heads to play non-league opponent Norwich while B-G (5-4) travels to Unatego. Both games are scheduled for Thursday. Oxford’s match starts at 5:30 p.m. while B-G’s starts at 6:30 p.m.

Results:

OX 3 - BG 1

OX 25- BG 15

BG 25 - OX 17

OX 27 - BG 25

OX 25 - BG 22