ASHLAND, OH - In a stunning upset, the sixth-seeded Walsh University Cavaliers (18-12, 10-6 G-MAC) swept the third-seeded Ashland Eagles (19-11, 12-4 G-MAC) in the G-MAC Quarterfinals on Tuesday evening. The Cavaliers dominated the match and won in 3 sets with scores of 25-23, 26-24, and 25-19, advancing to the semifinals where they will face #7 Ohio Dominican on Friday.

The Cavaliers, coming off a tough Senior Day loss to Northwood, showed remarkable resilience and determination in this crucial playoff match. Walsh's offense was led by junior Sammie DiBease, who recorded a match-high 15 kills, and senior Sydney Dixon, who contributed 14 kills and 15 digs for a double-double. Senior setter Jayme Zoeckler orchestrated the offense masterfully with 38 assists while adding 15 digs of her own.

The Cavaliers' defense proved to be the difference-maker in this match. Junior Anna West was a force at the net, registering an impressive 8 blocks. Arora Levengood anchored the back row with a game-high 21 digs, while Dixon and Zoeckler each added 15 digs to the defensive effort.

Ashland fought hard but couldn't overcome Walsh's consistent play. The Eagles were led by Samantha Young with 13 kills and Sara Krizsa with 12 kills, while libero Abbey Queen recorded 24 digs in the losing effort.

The match was closely contested, particularly in the first two sets. Walsh showed their determination by closing out tight situations, winning the first set 25-23 and the second set 26-24. The Cavaliers then found their rhythm in the third set, pulling away for a decisive 25-19 victory to clinch the match.

This win not only keeps Walsh's season alive but also avenges their regular-season losses to Ashland. The Cavaliers will now look to carry this momentum into their semifinal match against ODU. 

RECORD: Walsh 18-12 (10-6 G-MAC)
OPPONENT RECORD: Ashland 19-11 (12-4 G-MAC)
SCORES: Walsh 3 - Ashland 0 (25-23, 26-24, 25-19)
LOCATION: Charles Kates Gymnasium, Ashland, OH

FOR THE CAVALIERS:
Sammie DiBease: 15 kills, 1 ace
Sydney Dixon: 14 kills, 15 digs, 2 blocks
Jayme Zoeckler: 38 assists, 15 digs
Anna West: 7 kills, 8 blocks
Arora Levengood: 21 digs, 1 ace
Hannah Shaw: 3 blocks

The Cavaliers will face second-seeded Northwood in the G-MAC semifinals on Friday, looking to continue their postseason run and secure a spot in the championship match.