Thunderwolves fall in three sets to rival Erie

SUNY Niagara lost to rival Erie Community College in three sets, 25-22, 25-17, 25-20, in WNYAC play Thursday in Buffalo. The loss for the Thunderwolves came after competing in their first Region III pod of the season Saturday in Watertown. 

Sophomore Cait Cliffe recorded 13 kills and six digs, both team-highs. This was the third time this season and 10th in Cliffe's career where she recorded double-digit kills in a contest, including six of her last eight appearances, dating back to a three-set victory against Mohawk Valley on Oct. 19, 2024. 

In just her second appearance with the program, freshman Jordan Smith recorded a team-high 22 assists. Smith made her SUNY Niagara debut against Jefferson on Saturday. 

Freshman Ava Roberts recorded a new season-high six kills along with four digs. Classmate Sariah Tindal recorded three digs and two kills. Freshman Nevaeh Hall had three digs and sophomore Lyida Tetrault added two. Sophomores Ava Gaudy (two kills) and Alexi Majka (one kill) also appeared in all three sets. 

0-4 SUNY Niagara continues its season with a Region III pod at Erie Community College Saturday in Buffalo. The Thunderwolves face SUNY Adirondack at 10 a.m. followed by a contest with Hudson Valley Community College at Noon.