GOSHEN, Ind. - In a difficult first test for the Maples Leafs to start out the 2026 season, Goshen fell to the #10 University of the Cumberlands in three sets. The first set was the strongest for the Leafs as they held the deficit to 25-17, but couldn't quite maintain those points in the subsequent sets, falling 25-13 and 25-10.
Despite the challenges for the Leafs, junior transfer Emese Southwick and Carmin Corey led the team with five kills apiece. They were followed closely by freshman Railynn Bowman, who delivered four kills and an assist in her first showing for the Leafs.
Immediately following that match, the Leafs faced Texas Wesleyan University, where the Rams also won 3-0. The Leafs once again started strong in the first set, falling 25-16 but earning two aces. Goshen faltered in the second set with a deficit of 25-9, but rallied for their closest set of the day in the third where they fell just short 25-18.
Bowman and Southwick once again led the team in kills in the second match as well, earning seven and five respectively. Armani Guidry-Austin also garnered three kills against the Rams alongside Corey. Jessie Price led the team with two service aces on the day, coming in those critical first and third sets.
The Leafs will play at 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. again tomorrow to play opponents that will be decided as the tournament progresses today.
