NCCC picks up first win at FMCC Pod

Niagara County Community College opened its season by finishing 1-2 at this past weekend's Region III pod matches hosted by Fulton-Montgomery Community College. The Thunderwolves are now 1-2 in regional play as they prepare to open Western New York Athletic Conference competition at 6 p.m. Thursday when local rival Erie Community College comes to the Sanborn campus.

Herkimer College 3, Niagara CCC 0

Despite 25 digs from sophomore libero Jocelyn Swierski, the T-Wolves fell in straight sets. The scores were 27-25, 25-16 and 25-21 in favor of the Generals. Second-year setter Kaitlin Hoadley finished with 16 assists and sophomore outside hitter Gianna Smalley had five kills in the loss.

Fulton-Montgomery CC 3, Niagara CCC 0

Swierski notched a match-high 26 digs, but the nationally-ranked Raiders were too much, winning by scores of: 25-6, 25-20 and 25-11. Also for N-Trip, Hoadley had 16 assists and six digs and Smalley ripped five kills.

Niagara CCC 3, Mohawk Valley CC 0

The Thunderwolves got into the win column, sweeping the Hawks by the scores of: 27-25, 25-16 and 25-21. Sophomore middle hitter Marissa Dusza led the offense with nine kills and five solo blocks. Classmate Alexia Bleuer was all over the court, finishing with seven kills and six digs. Meanwhile, Swierski led the defense with 23 digs and Hoadley had a season-best 24 assists.