USC Salkehatchie Volleyball Shows Resilience in Split Matches

WALTERBORO, S.C. – August 23, 2025 –  The USC Salkehatchie volleyball team faced a pair of formidable opponents today, finishing with a split record. Salkehatchie lost to Davidson-Davie Community College (DDCC) in the first match but bounced back with a dominant victory over Patrick Henry in the second.

The day began with a competitive match against DDCC, where Salkehatchie showed grit and determination despite a three-set loss (0-3). The DDCC team's powerful offense and strong defensive blocks presented a significant challenge.

"They have massive hitters, huge blocks and run a fast offense," head coach Dani Aquino said. Despite the result, the team showed incredible resilience, with Aquino noting, "each set we gained more and more momentum. Had we played one more set, we would’ve taken them."

Salkehatchie carried that momentum into their second match against Patrick Henry, securing a commanding three-set victory (3-0).  

"Against Patrick Henry we dominated. We played our game, on our time, and in our tempo. We set our minds to win, and that’s exactly what we did,” Aquino said.

Several players delivered standout performances throughout the day. Freshman Eboni Thomas led the team in kills with 12, while setter Madison Ayuso contributed 8 kills in an impressive performance playing front row. Ayuso also had a killer service game against Patrick Henry, scoring 10 consecutive points from the service line.

Freshman Brielle Krause was also a force at the service line, recording 9 aces for the day. Freshman setter Cheyenne Hammock racked up 15 assists, and freshman Madison Tauber was a defensive standout, earning 5 solo blocks.

Salkehatchie will be back in action for its next game on the road, heading to Augusta on August 26, 2025, to face Paine College at 6:00 PM.