Hosting its first home match of the season on Wednesday, Deerfield defeated Hotchkiss by a score of 3-1.
Deerfield got off to a strong start with Charlotte Coody ‘26 serving Deerfield out to a 6-0 lead. After that, both teams struggled to find a rhythm and a number of missed serves from Deerfield tightened the score, but DA was able to take the first set, 25-15.
In the second set, Deerfield had more active offense but too many service and passing errors allowed the Bearcats to come back and win the set, 23-25.
The third set saw Deerfield’s hitting and passing start to more effectively connect: Loran McGruder ‘24, Emily Rice ‘24, and Sabina Frosk ‘24 made excellent defensive plays while Georgia Ball ‘25 and Margot McAuliffe ‘24 each had multiple hits and blocks on the right side as Deerfield won the set, 25-18.
In the fourth set, Deerfield’s outside hitters really got going with setting from Coody and Greta Trapp ‘25 leading to repeated points from Evie Mokarow ‘24 and Evelyn Kunde ‘26. Kudos to Hotchkiss’s defense which was able to pick up difficult balls and extend rallies. Deerfield was able to win the set and close out the match, 25-14.
Thanks to the great fans for bringing energy and noise to the gym. And thank you to Hotchkiss for making the long trip.
Next up, Deerfield hosts an always-strong Exeter squad during our upcoming Family Weekend. First serve is Saturday at 3pm.