Meredith Outlasts Pfeiffer in Five-Set Thriller

MISENHEIMER, N.C. (Oct. 22, 2025)) — Despite a valiant effort and standout performances from multiple players, Pfeiffer University fell to Meredith College in a five-set thriller on Wednesday night at Merner Gym, dropping the USA South Conference match 3-2 (25-21, 25-20, 26-28, 18-25, 15-8).

Pfeiffer (11-13, 5-7 USA South) rallied from a two-set deficit to force a decisive fifth frame, but Meredith (15-8, 9-4 USA South) held on to secure the win in front of a rowdy Merner Gym crowd.

Senior Madison Tate led the Falcons with 11 kills and nine total blocks, while Haedyn McGrath added 12 kills and five blocks, hitting an impressive .429. Faith Miller contributed four kills and two blocks, and Gabby Edwards anchored the defense with a match-high 30 digs and three service aces.

Pfeiffer's defense was a bright spot, tallying 84 digs and 14 total blocks. The Falcons also recorded seven service aces, with Gabi Gama and Edwards each notching three.

After dropping the first two sets, Pfeiffer stormed back in the third, edging Meredith 28-26 in a set that featured 15 ties and five lead changes. The Falcons carried that momentum into the fourth, winning 25-18 behind strong net play and clutch kills from McGrath and Miller.

However, Meredith regrouped in the fifth, jumping out to an early lead and closing the match with a 15-8 victory. Caitlyn Russell paced the Avenging Angels with 23 kills and 11 digs, while Delaney Lowery added 15 kills and three blocks.

The Falcons will look to rebound when they head to Rocky Mount, N.C. for their next match on Friday, Oct. 24 to take on N.C. Wesleyan at 6:00 p.m.