ROHNERT PARK, Calif. – Cal Poly Humboldt volleyball fell short in a four-set match against Sonoma State (7-8, 4-5 CCAA) at The Wolves' Den. Despite a strong opening set, the Lumberjacks (7-10, 3-6 CCAA) couldn't hold off Sonoma's comeback, ultimately dropping the match by scores of 25-21, 17-25, 15-25, and 13-25.

In front of a modest crowd of 50, Humboldt came out swinging in the first set, posting 16 kills and a .243 hitting percentage. The Lumberjacks capitalized on the Seawolves' errors, outlasting their opponent to secure the 25-21 win. Awelina Fakalata led the charge with a match-high 11 kills, while Aurora Meneghetti and Madyn Cervellera each added nine.

However, Sonoma State responded with a dominant second set, recording 13 kills and a .345 hitting percentage to even the match at 1-1. Humboldt struggled offensively, hitting just .097 in the second set and was unable to regain momentum for the remainder of the contest. The Seawolves' strong defensive presence, anchored by Emily Hernandez with 19 digs and six blocks, stifled the Lumberjacks in sets three and four.

Humboldt saw bright moments at the service line, where Fakalata registered four aces, and at the net with Hollis Downing leading the team in blocks with five. Despite the efforts, Sonoma's balanced attack, led by Hernandez and Jackie Winfield with 13 kills apiece, proved too much for the Jacks.

Set-by-set, the Lumberjacks' hitting percentage dipped, falling to -.094 in the third and a meager .091 in the fourth, while Sonoma maintained efficiency, closing out the match with a .382 hitting percentage in the final set.

Defensively, Sophia Spoja led Humboldt with 13 digs, followed closely by Fakalata with 12. Setter Kyra Slavik recorded 32 assists, distributing the ball effectively to her attackers throughout the match. Despite the loss, the Lumberjacks displayed resilience and will look to bounce back in their next conference matchup.

Game Leaders
- Kills: Awelina Fakalata (11), Aurora Meneghetti (9), Madyn Cervellera (9)
- Aces: Awelina Fakalata (4), Aurora Meneghetti (1), Madyn Cervellera (1)
- Blocks: Hollis Downing (5), Graysen Trupp (3), Aurora Meneghetti (3)
- Assists: Kyra Slavik (32), Aurora Meneghetti (3), Sophia Spoja (2)
- Digs: Sophia Spoja (13), Awelina Fakalata (12), Madyn Cervellera (8)

Cal Poly Humboldt will return home to face Sonoma State again on Saturday, October 19th at Lumberjack Arena. First serve is set for 3 p.m. It is Youth and Camper Reunion Night, so be sure to stick around for postgame autographs and giveaways throughout the match. 

For more information on Cal Poly Humboldt Volleyball, please visit humboldtathletics.com, download our mobile app, and follow us on all social media platforms. 

Free Regular Season Home Matches in Lumberjack Arena
Thanks to a sponsorship from Mortages with Oceana, Cal Poly Humboldt will have free admission to all 2024 regular-season home matches this fall.