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MATCH DAY: Freshmen Stars Wroniuk and Calhoun Help Runners Stay Unbeaten with Win over CC Morris

MATCH DAY: Freshmen Stars Wroniuk and Calhoun Help Runners Stay Unbeaten with Win over CC Morris

There is little doubt that Coach Rebecca Pierson's volleyball squad has developed a solid team chemistry in the young Spring 2021 season.

Thanks to the fine play of veterans such as Katie Burrichter (libero), Macenzie Long (outside hitter) and Dominique Marcano (setter), the Runners blanked visiting County College of Morris by a 3-0 score Friday night to continue their unbeaten season with a 4-0 record.

But the contributions of freshmen Summer Wroniuk (setter) and Devon Calhoun (outside hitter) made the biggest impact and demonstrated a solid unity throughout the entire lineup.

"It's great team chemistry all the way," said Wroniuk, a former Williamstown High standout. "All of the freshmen felt welcomed right away and we've been able to make our share of contributions."

The Runners registered their fourth straight win in straight sets, 25-21, 25-17, and 25-22. The easy triumph followed a hard-fought 3-2 win in five sets vs. the Titans on the road Monday night.

Calhoun stepped up with amazing play around the net, especially in the third set when the Runners found themselves behind by a 17-12 score. The squad rallied with a 13-5 surge to grab the set 25-22 and emerge with the triumph.

"I felt comfortable tonight and was able to play aggressively around the net," said Calhoun, a former Washington Township High standout. "There's great support all around me, and that allows me to to take some chance and step up my game."

Next up for the Runners will be a key match against visiting Raritan Valley, whom they lost to in the Region playoffs last season, on Monday in a 6 pm start.

Match Day Preview

It is no surprise that the Roadrunner Volleyball team is off to a solid 3-0 start in the Spring 2021 season. Head coach Rebecca Pierson hopes her squad continues that success when they host County College of Morris Friday night in the back end of a two-game series between the two programs.

RCSJ Gloucester survived a tough battle Monday night against the Titans when they emerged victorious in a five-set match on the road. And a talented group of veterans and newcomers alike paved the way, highlighting the depth Coach Pierson has on her team.

"It's been tough with juggling practices," noted Coach Pierson. "But we are off to a good start and the players have had a chance to build a team chemistry heading into next Fall."

Sophomore Dominique Marcano led the way with 24 assists and 7 digs. She was supported by sophomore Katie Burrichter (15 digs) and freshman Summer Wroniuk (18 digs) as well as sophomore Macenzie Long (16.5 points), all of whom continue to enjoy success in the early portion of the Spring 2021 season.

Freshman Devon Calhoun added 11 digs to the winning effort.

Match time tonight at the Roadrunner Athletic Complex is 7:00 pm. No spectators will be permitted in the complex due to pandemic restrictions.