Flying Eagles Upset No. 8 Caldwell Tech in Five-Set Home Opener

Game Recap: Women's Volleyball
8/28/2025 | Shaun Schetka

CEDAR BLUFF, VA- The Southwest Virginia Community College volleyball team opened its home schedule with a statement win Thursday night, knocking off No. 8 Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute in a five-set battle (27-29, 25-27, 25-23, 25-23, 16-14).

Caldwell Tech (2-1), ranked eighth in the latest NJCAA Division II poll, looked poised to continue its strong start after claiming the opening two sets. Behind a powerful performance from Destiny Jordan (21 kills, 27 points) and Lyrical Edwards (16 kills, 14 digs), the Cobras pushed SWCC to the brink. However, the Flying Eagles responded with composure and timely execution to flip the momentum.

Southwest Virginia (1-0) found its spark in the third set and never looked back. The Eagles tightened defensively at the net, highlighted by Patricia Bigge’s six block assists and Brooklyn Langston’s six total blocks. Sophomore Destanie Ambers paced the offense with 19 kills, 11 digs, and five blocks, while Evie Buffington anchored the back row with 25 digs and three service aces. Lucy Reid directed the attack with 32 assists, keeping SWCC balanced down the stretch.

As a team, the Flying Eagles finished with 48 kills, 24 block assists, and 10 aces. In the decisive fifth set, SWCC hit a match-best .438 to complete the comeback and secure their first home win of the season.