News Summary
UCF volleyball achieved a remarkable milestone by securing its first Big 12 Conference win, sweeping Cincinnati in straight sets and marking the program’s 800th victory at the Division I level. Head coach Matt Botsford celebrated his first Big 12 win, highlighting a solid performance where UCF limited Cincinnati’s hitting percentage and showcased their offensive strength with impressive stats. The Knights are now looking forward to their upcoming match against Colorado as they aim to build on this significant victory.
Orlando, FL
UCF volleyball recorded a significant milestone by achieving its first Big 12 Conference win of the season, sweeping Cincinnati in straight sets at The Venue. The victory not only marked UCF’s first conference win this year but also represents the program’s impressive 800th win at the Division I level. Head coach Matt Botsford celebrated his inaugural win in the Big 12, solidifying a promising start as the Knights navigate their first season in this competitive conference.
Throughout the match, UCF demonstrated exceptional defensive skills, limiting Cincinnati to a hitting percentage of just .141, which is notably less than half of their season average. Prior to this matchup, Cincinnati ranked as the nation’s 10th-highest hitting percentage. UCF’s robust performance included a striking hitting percentage of .343, showcasing their offensive strength across all sets.
Freshman libero Alexa Haley stood out defensively, leading the Knights with 12 digs during her third consecutive start. Skylar English, a senior outside hitter, contributed significantly by recording 16 kills; meanwhile, redshirt junior outside hitter Avah Armour added 12 kills to the Knights’ tally.
Match Breakdown
The match began with UCF securing an early lead in the first set, establishing a 10-5 advantage and ultimately winning the set 25-16. The second set was characterized by tension and multiple errors from both teams, but UCF managed to clinch it with a close score of 25-23, holding a lead of five points at one stage. The intense competition continued into the third set, where UCF faced a tie at 12 points but ultimately finished strong, winning the set 25-20, backed by a crucial four-point run.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, UCF improves its record in the Big 12 and will next face Colorado on October 2nd at 9 p.m.. This match is part of UCF’s inaugural season in the Big 12, following a previous loss against Baylor. Following the upcoming match against Colorado, the Knights will continue their road trip with another matchup against Iowa State on October 4.
Background Context
This match is significant as UCF transitions into its first season in the Big 12 Conference, challenging itself among new competitors. After a tough opening match against Baylor, the Knights demonstrated resilience with this commanding win against Cincinnati, a feat that not only boosts their confidence but also highlights the progress made under Coach Botsford’s leadership.
As the season progresses, UCF’s performance will be closely monitored as they aim to build momentum within the conference and capitalize on the strengths displayed in their latest match against Cincinnati.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
UCF Achieves Preeminent State Research University Status
Orange County Schools Shine in Central Florida Football Rankings
Orlando’s Fall Sports and Events Schedule
UCF Knights Triumph Over North Carolina Tar Heels
Orlando High School Sports Roundup: Football and Cross Country Highlights
UCF University Announces Induction of Six Alumni into Hall of Fame
UCF University Announces Hall of Fame Class
UCF Track and Field Team Shines at Outdoor Big 12 Championship
UCF University Volleyball Welcomes New Addition Ella Chapman
High School Sports Showdown Coming to Orlando
Additional Resources
- UCF Knights: Volleyball Sweeps Cincinnati
- Wikipedia: University of Central Florida
- Nicholson Student Media: UCF Volleyball Recap
- Google Search: UCF volleyball
- Go Bearcats: Volleyball Drops Match Against UCF
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Volleyball
- Go Bearcats: Volleyball Opens Conference Play
- Google News: Cincinnati volleyball
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
