Lemont Furnace, PA- The Penn State Shenango Women's Volleyball team began their USCAA Division II National Championship pool play with grit, resilience, and undeniable fight, battling through every point despite ultimately falling in three sets to UC Clermont.

Shenango opened the match trying to establish its rhythm, trading early points before unforced errors shifted momentum. The team finished the first set with nine kills, but nine errors kept them from capitalizing during long rallies, leading to a 25-17 opening frame loss. A similar storyline unfolded in the second set, where Shenango worked hard in transition but again totaled seven kills and seven errors, ending with another 25-17 score.

The Lions found their strongest energy in the third set, showing their best offensive rhythm of the match and battling to a competitive 25-19 finish. With sharper swings and improved ball control, Shenango hit .120 in the final frame—its highest efficiency of the day—and kept pressure on Clermont deep into the set.

Offensively, Savana Shipman led Shenango with eight kills, posting a .222 hitting percentage and providing consistent firepower at the net. Izzy Mauro delivered one of the most efficient performances of the match, tallying six kills on 13 swings for a .308 hitting percentage. Taylor Burns added four kills, staying aggressive and helping the Lions extend rallies.

From the service line, Shenango generated momentum with eight total aces, led by Gabby Villanueva Santos with four. Taegan Scheller added two, while Shipman and Sydney Ward each delivered one that helped spark shifts in energy.

Defensively, Shenango displayed toughness and hustle. Shipman and Jillian Palumbo each recorded eight digs, anchoring the backcourt and helping Shenango stay in long rallies. Setter Jadeyn Zepeda added five digs while distributing 19 assists, guiding the offense through adjustments and keeping hitters in rhythm. Ward and Mauro contributed block assists, helping Shenango disrupt attacks at the net.

While the 3–0 result doesn't fully capture Shenango's competitive spirit, the team's late-set momentum, improved hitting efficiency, and relentless defensive effort provide confidence heading into the final pool play matchup. The Lions showed they can compete with intensity on the national stage.