Playing at home for the first time this season, the UC Santa Barbara women’s volleyball team delighted the crowd with an impressive 3-1 (23-25, 25-22, 25-19, 25-22) win over the University of San Diego on Friday night to kick off the Thunderdome Classic.
With the win, UCSB (6-1) has now won four straight matches and is off to its best start in the Nicole Lantagne Welch era (since 2012). The Gauchos defeated a San Diego program that entered the evening receiving votes in the latest AVCA Poll, and were ranked No. 25 in the poll last week before dropping out after a five-set loss to No. 2 Nebraska.
“I’m so ecstatic for our players,” head coach Lantagne Welch said. “Working to improve and making steps along the way and staying true to the process can be challenging at times and it’s a moment right now that you feel rewarded. We just played great against a great team and I have a lot of respect for that program and their coaches.”
Facing a talented defensive unit, the Gauchos improved their efficiency in each set, finishing with a hitting percentage of .253 (58-21-146) while holding the Toreros to .154 (54-30-156).
Lindsey Ruddins was the catalyst on offense with 20 kills while adding 14 digs for her fourth double-double in seven matches this season. Friday night also marked the third consecutive 20-kill match for the star outside hitter.
Tallulah Froley and Rowan Ennis joined Ruddins in double figures with 10 kills apiece and Ennis added eight total blocks, including two via the solo variety. Romoni Vivao paced the setting tandem with 25 assists while Olivia Lovenberg added 19.
UCSB will continue Thunderdome Classic action Saturday, beginning at 12:00 p.m. with a match against La Salle. The Gauchos will conclude the tournament at 7:00 p.m. against Harvard.