ALBANY, N.Y. –  Russell Sage College began its 2021 fall season by defeating visiting SUNY Delhi 3-2 on Wednesday evening inside Kahl Gymnasium. The Gators (1-0) earned the non-conference victory by scores of 20-25, 25-18, 25-13, 18-25, 15-11.

Senior leadership proved vital for Sage in the opener. Senior outside hitter Emma Parkington (Dalton, MA/Wahconah Regional) topped all players with 13 kills, while senior setter Francesca Gigliotti (Dalton, MA/Wahconah Regional) registered 35 assists, six aces, and eight digs. Parkington recorded 13 digs for the ninth double-double of her career, while senior middle hitter Celia Gagnon (Troy, NY/Ichabod Crane) added 12 kills on .233 hitting.

"What a return to completion for the Gators," said Head Coach Sandy Augstein-Collins. "This was a great team win and it was amazing to be back on the court with fans in the stands!! Thank you to the students who cheered us to victory."

Following the split of the opening two sets, the Gators raced out to a 15-3 lead to capture the third stanza. The visiting Broncos then took advantage of a 7-2 run midway through the fourth period to extend the opener to five.

In the deciding frame, Sage reeled off six consecutive points to take control. Following the Gator outburst, SUNY Delhi was unable to get closer than three.

Junior outside hitter/defensive specialist Bailee Jones led the visitors with a double-double of 10 kills and 15 digs.

Looking ahead, Sage competes at the Morrisville State Tournament on Friday and Saturday. SUNY Delhi (0-1) has its home opener on Thursday night vs. Marywood at 7:00 pm.

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