Kings Point, NY (Oct. 6, 2010) – The United States Merchant Marine Academy women's volleyball squad bested Purchase by a final score of 3-0 at Liebertz Gymnasium Wednesday night.

The final scores of the three sets were: 25-11, 25-17 and 25-17. With the triumph, the Mariners improved to 8-10 overall. Following the defeat, the Panthers dropped to 4-7 on the year.

USMMA's middle hitter Julie Flaherty led the way with 11 kills and four service aces. Fellow rookie middle hitter Michelle Daneu was right behind her with 10 kills in the match. Senior setter Jenna Palaschak dished out a match-high 33 assists, while Daneu and freshman outside hitter Kelly Hodges recorded two digs each.

Hodges and Daneu also swatted three service aces each, contributing to USMMA's total of 13.

The Panthers were paced by Rebecca Dittler (JR/Elmira Heights, NY) and Olivia Hintz (JR/East Aurora, NY), who each finished with six and five kills, respectively. Dittler added two solo blocks and two block assists. Setter Mickaela Olson (JR/Glen Cove, NY) also recorded 16 assists.

-USMMA Sports Information Contributed to this report