SHARKS HEAD BACK TO NATIONALS

In a commanding performance, the Miami Dade Sharks secured their return to the NJCAA National Tournament with a 3-0 sweep over USC Lancaster. With a season record now standing at an impressive 22-2, Miami Dade was relentless, outmatching USC Lancaster in straight sets, 25-17, 25-20, and 25-13.

The Sharks set the tone early, showcasing superior efficiency in their attacks. In the first set, they hit at an impressive .485 with standout kills by Esthefany Rabit and Juliana Laguado Raigosa, who both achieved a remarkable hitting percentage of .500. Rabit led the charge, finishing the match with 10 kills on 14 attempts, posting an exceptional .714 attack percentage, while Katielle Alonzo added eight kills at .400 efficiency.

Defensively, Mia Martinez was crucial, leading with 16 digs and maintaining solid court coverage, which stifled USC Lancaster's attack. USC struggled to gain momentum, hitting below .000 in both the second and third sets. Their strongest hitter, Olivia Noffsinger, was kept to a .000 hitting percentage, a testament to Miami Dade's defense.

The Sharks' serving prowess was also notable, as Maria Clara Antunes delivered three aces, keeping USC Lancaster's back row on their heels and disrupting their passing flow. Combined with their dominant net play—Miami Dade notched six solo blocks and 14 block assists—the Sharks held Lancaster to a team hitting percentage of -.020.

With this victory, Miami Dade College returns to the NJCAA National Tournament, a thrilling opportunity to compete for the national title, backed by a roster that has consistently delivered both offensively and defensively throughout the season.