On September 6, 2025, the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) Hawks volleyball team delivered a commanding performance, securing 3-0 victories over both the Community College of Beaver County and Howard Community College in a tri-match hosted at Howard CC in Columbia, Maryland. These wins improved CSM’s record to 3-7 overall and 2-0 in Maryland JUCO conference play, showcasing their dominance in Southern Maryland’s junior college volleyball scene.
The first match against Beaver County, starting at noon, ended decisively with set scores of 25-16, 25-8, and 25-11. The Hawks displayed offensive prowess, amassing 41 kills with a .323 hitting percentage across three sets. Lelia Iafeta led with 13 kills, hitting .379, while Deanna Kalkbrenner contributed nine kills and two blocks. Donshae Walls added nine kills at an impressive .692 hitting percentage, bolstering the team’s attack. Amelie Lancioni anchored the offense with 14 assists and a team-high 14 digs, demonstrating versatility. The team’s serving was equally effective, with six aces, including two from Kaylana Parde. Beaver County struggled offensively, recording no kills or assists, allowing CSM to control the match from start to finish.
At 2:00 p.m., CSM faced Howard Community College, securing another 3-0 sweep with set scores of 25-13, 26-24, and 25-17. The Hawks maintained their momentum, posting 34 kills and a .189 hitting percentage. Iafeta again led with 15 kills, hitting .333, and added 17 digs and four blocks for a standout performance. Kalkbrenner chipped in four kills and three blocks, while Taylor Hollinger and Lancioni each recorded three kills. Ana Salamanca and Kaylen Miles provided 22 and 18 assists, respectively, fueling the offense. CSM’s defense was relentless, with 73 digs and eight blocks, limiting Howard CC to 23 kills and a .000 hitting percentage. Howard’s Toriana Curry led her team with five kills, but it wasn’t enough to counter CSM’s balanced attack.
“These wins reflect the hard work our team has put into refining our game,” said CSM’s head coach, though specific comments were not provided in the match reports. The Hawks’ ability to dominate both matches highlights their growth after a challenging 3-7 start to the season. The victories are particularly significant in the competitive Maryland JUCO conference, where CSM now holds a 2-0 record.
The matches, played at Howard CC’s athletic facilities in Columbia, drew local fans from Southern Maryland, including supporters from nearby La Plata, where CSM’s campus is located. The Hawks’ performance underscores the strength of their roster, which draws heavily from local high schools like North Point and Thomas Stone, fostering community pride in Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s counties. With upcoming games, including a home match against Garrett College on October 4, 2025, CSM aims to build on this momentum.
These sweeps position CSM as a contender in Region 20, with players like Iafeta and Kalkbrenner emerging as key leaders.
