JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville University beach volleyball team opened its season at the Dolphin Duals, facing a strong slate of opponents in USF, UNCW, South Carolina, and North Florida.
Kubicsko & Mrukowski Shine at No. 1
The Dolphins' top pair of
Emily Kubicsko and
Claire Mrukowski secured two wins over the weekend, showcasing their skill and chemistry. They opened the tournament with a thrilling 24-22, 21-19 victory over USF's Audrey Gauthier and Samantha Crosby. On Sunday, they delivered JU's lone point against South Carolina, dominating Morgan Downs and Jolie Cranford in straight sets, 21-15, 21-15.
Cunningham & Erhard Dominate at No. 5
The pairing of
Amanda Cunningham and
Kelly Erhard also made their mark, picking up two wins at the No. 5 flight. They swept USF's Sasha Pasloski and Bailey Chin with a commanding 21-13, 21-8 performance and followed it up with another straight-set victory over UNCW's Hannah Forbes and Sophie Puhala, 21-12, 21-18.
Nika & Perry Secure a Win at No. 3
At the No. 3 spot,
Kristina Nika and
Morgan Perry earned a key victory against UNCW, outlasting Tamsie Black and Maddy Folks in a tight 21-19, 21-18 battle.
Swink & Cabrales Take No. 6 Victory
In an extra matchup against UNCW,
Kyelynn Swink and
Caitlin Cabrales added another win for JU, rolling to a 21-14, 21-15 triumph over Alivia Hamel and Marissa Vann.
Despite a tough overall record, Jacksonville showed promise with several competitive sets and individual victories. The Dolphins will look to build on these performances as they continue their season.
