SPRINGFIELD, Mass., January 30, 2007 – Springfield College junior All-American Eric Palumbo (Chili, N.Y.) totaled 20 kills in 27 swings with just three errors for an outstanding .630 hitting percentage as the fifth-ranked Pride cruised past Harvard University, 3-0 (30-18, 30-21, 30-19), in Eastern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association (EIVA) Hay Division play this evening in Blake Arena.

With the win, its fifth straight overall, SC improves to 5-3 on the season and 1-0 in the EIVA Hay. The Crimson falls to 0-1 overall in its 2007 season opener. In five Pride wins this season, SC has outplayed its opponents by an impressive 15-1 margin in games.

Palumbo recorded 20 kills, a match-high three service aces and one block for a total of 23.5 points. Freshman outside hitter AJ Nally (Rochester, N.Y.) finished with eight kills (.333 hitting percentage) and three blocks (one solo) for 10 points. The first-year also tallied a match-best eight digs. Sophomore All-American Andy Sipe (New Oxford, Pa.) racked up a match-high four blocks to go along with his seven kills and three digs.

Harvard University was led by sophomore middle hitter Brady Weissbourd with eight kills on 15 swings and three errors for a .333 hitting percentage. Crimson senior middle hitter Andy Nelson added six kills and two service aces, and senior setter Dave Fitz chipped in with 23 assists, two service aces and two solo blocks.

The Pride will next host non-conference foe, Vassar College on Friday evening, February 2nd, in a 7:00 p.m. start with its sights set on a sixth consecutive victory.

published: 01/30/2007