PRINCESS ANNE, Maryland – September 25, 2026 – The University of Maryland Eastern Shore volleyball team opened its home slate with a victory Friday night, defeating South Carolina State in four sets (26-24, 25-16, 21-25, 25-22) inside the Hytche Center.

UMES battled through a tightly contested opening set, edging the Bulldogs 26-24 before taking control in the second. The Hawks hit .350 in the frame on their way to a 25-16 victory and a 2-0 advantage in the match.

South Carolina State responded with a 25-21 win in the third, but the Hawks closed the door in the fourth. The final set featured 11 ties and six lead changes before UMES pulled away for a 25-22 victory to secure the match.

Rayah Howell led the UMES attack with 13 kills while hitting .478. Malaysia Shaw added 10 kills and six block assists, while Jayda Hutchins finished with 10 kills, eight digs and two service aces. Karielys Melendez contributed seven kills, nine digs and three block assists.

The Hawks made their presence felt at the net, finishing with 10.5 team blocks compared to five for South Carolina State. UMES also recorded eight service aces in the victory.

Jocelyn Torres dished out a team-high 22 assists, while Kate-Linh Eden added 15. Arianna Warner Torres anchored the back row with a team-high 15 digs.

Up Next

Maryland Eastern Shore remains home to take on North Carolina Central on Sunday, September 27 at 1 p.m. inside the Hytche Center.