ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. – History has been made! The Livingstone College Lady Blue Bears are headed to the 2026 CIAA Volleyball Championship after delivering a dominant performance in Tuesday afternoon's semifinal matchup against Bowie State University.
The Lady Blue Bears made a statement on the court, sweeping Bowie State in straight sets (25-22, 25-15, 25-16) to secure their spot in the championship game.
Livingstone controlled the match from start to finish, finishing with 46 kills, 60 digs and a .281 hitting percentage compared to Bowie State's 32 kills, 48 digs and .085 hitting percentage.
Leading the offensive charge were
Hailey Henriquez with 14 kills,
Oliwia Jaroszewicz with 12 kills and
Da'Maia Bryant with 10 kills. Jaroszewicz also contributed two service aces, while Bryant led the team at the net with six blocks.
Defensively,
Tialofa Alofipo recorded an impressive 23 digs, while
Mya Dalpiaz added 11.
Justyce McKennie paced the offense with 21 assists, followed by
Masa Simovic with 12.
The 2026 CIAA Volleyball Championship game is scheduled for Wednesday, November 11, at 12 p.m. at the Rocky Mount Event Center. The Lady Blue Bears' championship opponent will be announced following the conclusion of the remaining semifinal matchup between Fayetteville State University and Elizabeth City State University.
