AZUSA, Calif. 026026 026026 026 The Azusa Pacific University Cougars women’s volleyball team extended their undefeated start to 8-0 by sweeping Justice University 3-0 and defeating Hope International 3-1 on September 12, 2026, at their home court. The Cougars set a school record by winning their first 23 sets of the season, continuing their best start since 2011.
Cougars Sweep Justice University 3-0 (25-11, 25-20, 25-13)
Azusa Pacific dominated from the outset, winning the first six points and maintaining control throughout the match. Senior outside hitter Brynja Martin, starting in a spot role, led the first set with six kills. In the second set, contributors Abby McGuyre and Elayna Hess combined for five kills and two block assists, helping the Cougars pull away late. Victoria Miller contributed three kills and a block in the third set, while Sarah Wilson added five kills, including the match-winning point. Wilson and Martin finished with double-digit kills, posting 11 and 10 respectively. Defensively, Flora Sebestyen led the team with 12 digs and the front line combined for eight blocks, with 11 different players contributing.
Azusa Pacific Defeats Hope International 3-1 (25-20, 25-21, 17-25, 25-23)
In a four-set match, the Cougars took the first two sets by capitalizing on Hope International errors. Sarah Wilson led the offense with 15 kills, while freshman Taylor Klatt had a breakout performance with nine kills and five block assists. Flora Sebestyen recorded a career-high 29 digs and provided key aces that helped shift momentum, though the Cougars dropped the third set. They rallied in the fourth set, winning 25-23 to secure the match. Jackie Winfield contributed three of the team’s eight aces, and Janelle Loewen delivered a critical four-point stretch with three kills to help close the match.
Looking Ahead
Azusa Pacific’s 23 consecutive set wins mark a new program record, showcasing the team’s strong start to the season, their best since the 2011 team opened 13-0 in its final NAIA campaign. The Cougars are scheduled to continue their season in Phoenix next weekend, facing Ottawa (AZ) on Friday at 11 a.m., followed by Benedictine-Mesa at 4 p.m.
CSB Take
The Azusa Pacific Cougars women’s volleyball team has demonstrated exceptional consistency and depth early in the 2026 season. Setting a new school record with 23 consecutive set wins underscores the team’s dominance. The blend of experienced players like Sarah Wilson and Brynja Martin alongside emerging talent such as Taylor Klatt and Flora Sebestyen provides a solid foundation as they pursue further success in the GSAC. Maintaining this momentum and adapting to tougher opponents will be key as the season progresses.
Source: Original report
