We are gearing up for another busy week in athletics with two Soccer games, two Volleyball games, and a Cross Country meet.
The week kicks off tonight when Salem Soccer opens up conference play at Southern Virginia University, who was picked second in the USA South Preseason Poll. In their seven contests the Spirits are 2-5. In last year's contest both Darilyn Nieto and Giselle Ramos found the back of the net to finish the first half tied 2-2. SVU was able to secure two more goals in the second half, making the final score 4-2 in favor of the Knights. The Spirits have had some high scoring games this season and are looking to continue that trend.
Salem Volleyball will also be taking on Southern Virginia on Wednesday in a Conference Championship rematch. Last season, the Spirits and Knights faced off three times, with Salem winning one of those contests. The first two matchups went the distance, the third going to four sets. In their Conference Championship game, Aspen Bradley secured 16 kills, Leah Rymer had 37 assists, and Jolina Bun had a whopping 32 digs. The Spirits are hoping for redemption in what is sure to be a competitive matchup this Wednesday.
Saturday brings another big conference matchup for Salem Volleyball where they take on Greensboro College in a three seed vs. four seed contest. Last year, the Spirits were 1-1 against the Monarchs, both games ending in a 3-1 score. A few notable stats from their most recent matchup were Ellie Scherer's 13 kills, Rymer's 41 assists, and the team's 8 blocks. The Spirits are looking to build on their impressive home win streak with both of these contests and bring their total up to 27.
Salem Soccer also competes against third seeded Methodist this Saturday, playing in their second conference matchup. The Spirits and the Monarchs have faced off 14 times, with Salem winning six of them. Their last matchup was a defensive battle in the first half, with the Spirits fending off numerous Monarch attacks. Methodist was able to find the back of the net twice in the second half, with Salem's lone goal coming from Nieto in the 89th minute. The Spirits are looking to start their conference season on a high note with their two contests this week.
Finally, Salem Cross Country will be competing in the Greensboro College Invitational for their second meet of the season. The Spirits are looking to build upon their 11th place finish at the Pfeiffer Invitational which was their first meet since 2019. The Spirits are working hard to grow the program and make a name for themselves in the USA South.
Be sure to tune in to our away games and pack the stands to cheer on your Spirits this week!
