Lakeland, Fla. – The Warner University beach volleyball team put up a strong fight against Ave Maria at Santa Fe Catholic High School, narrowly falling 3-2 in a highly competitive match. The Royals secured two key wins but came up just short as the Gyrenes clinched the final points.

Warner's Pair 1, featuring Leah Cooley and Ashlyn Fassnacht, dominated their matchup with a convincing 21-16, 21-12 victory. Pair 4, consisting of Amanda Jimenez and Lydia Coggins, also delivered a clutch performance, securing a hard-fought 22-20, 21-17 win.

The deciding match came down to Pair 3, where Julia De Jesus and Karla Rodriguez battled in a thrilling three-set showdown. Despite their relentless effort, they fell just short in a 20-22, 21-19, 15-8 loss.

While the Royals didn't secure the overall win, they showcased impressive teamwork, determination, and grit. Warner looks to bounce back in their next contest as they continue their season.

Ave María 3, Warner 2

• Pair 1: Fassnacht/Cooley (WU) def. Child/Lopez (Ave) – 21-16, 21-12
• Pair 2: Bravo/Getz (Ave) def. McDermott/Alfar (WU) – 21-14, 21-11
• Pair 3: Heney/Rissi (Ave) def. Jesus/Rodriguez (WU) – 20-22, 21-19, 15-8
• Pair 4: Jimenez/Coggins (WU) def. Barrett/Meyers (Ave) – 22-20, 21-17
• Pair 5: Grose/Makrewski (Ave) def. Harsch/Abbade (WU) – 21-19, 21-19

Next Up: The Royals will take on Brenau University on February 27.