The Gauchos started off the University of San Diego Tournament with a win over Yale, 3-1 (21-25, 25-19, 25-19, 25-16).
With the win, UCSB’s record improves to 7-5, while Yale’s fell to an even 3-3. The Gauchos move to a perfect 3-0 all-time against Ivy League opponents.
UCSB’s freshman libero Taylor Formico
Freshman libero Taylor Formico entered the UCSB record book with her perfomance on Friday night. Formico recorded 30 digs for the fourth time this season, tying the Gaucho rally-scoring era record set by Kristin Nelson in 2004. Formico has 21 matches, including the entire conference slate, to surpass the record.
The Gauchos started off slow against their Ivy League opponent, but were able to pick up steam throughout the match, ultimately holding the Bulldogs under 20 points in each of the final three games.
UCSB received contributions from a number of players, highlighting their bench depth. Leah Sully led the squad in kills with 16. Frehsman middle blocker Britton Taylor was second with 10 kills, but also led all players with a .474 hitting percentage.
Junior opposite Katey Thompson recorded nine kills and a career-high nine blocks in her return to action following an injury sustained last week on their five-match roadtrip. Junior middle blocker Jenna Wilson matched Thompson’s blocking exploits, picking up nine blocks- one of which was solo.
Freshman Jaylen Villanueva, seeing action at the setter position, recorded 34 assists while also chipping in six kills and 10 swings.
Freshman outside hitter Alex Barbeau had another solid night, contributing seven kills.
The Gauchos wrap up the USD Tournament tomorrow, playing the Fresno St. Bulldogs at 10 AM and the host Toreros at 7 PM.
