MADELAIN TIGANO
The Hartsell Arena opened it’s doors Sept. 10 for the first volleyball game ever played on PJC’s Pensacola campus.
Athletic Director Bill Hamilton did the honors in welcoming PJC’s opponents North Lake and PJC President Dr. Ed Meadows to the new court. Hamilton also thanked volleyball coach, Pete Pena, for his dedication in bringing the volleyball team to and from Milton for the past 13 years.
Meadows then used the microphone to present the game ball to the officials.
“Go get them ladies; let’s play,” Hamilton said right before the game began.
The Lady Pirates started the first set with Jessica Guidry serving. The first set ended PJC 25-12 with five kills made by Jamine Scott and the winning ace serve by Kelsi New.
Roxanne Salomone took control of the second set with a 10 point serving run, including two aces, helping PJC emerge on top once again in the second set winning 25 to 7.
In the third set North Lake improved its game and came out with the win leaving PJC only five points behind.
“We knew North Lake was going to come back after their low score in the second game,” Scott said.
PJC and North Lake battled it out in the fourth match. PJC managed to stay only points ahead as Hannah Nichols blocked for match point leaving PJC with its third win 25 to 22.
“I am proud we hung in there,” Pena said. “It’s been a great evening and I’m glad it was a win.”
PJC’s ladies volleyball team currently has the record of 12 wins and 4 losses, and a conference record of 2-0.