Runner-up Finish for NOVA 18 Navy at 18U GJNC

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>18 National Division</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>NOVA 18 Navy put together a terrific run in Columbus at the recent USAV GJNC 18U event. They completed pool play with a 4-1 record heading into crossover action where they needed to win one match in this round on day two to stay in contention for gold. Versus Texas Performance they pulled out a gutsy win with a 15-13 result in the third set to advance to the final eight teams competing for a podium finish. On Sunday, they defeated an athletic 608 team in straight sets before facing 1st Alliance 18 Silver in the semifinals, which ended in another three-set match with NOVA coming from behind to win 26-24 in set two before taking care of business with a solid 15-8 score in the third to earn an opportunity to play for the national title in this division. KC Power was their next opponent, and a formidable one at that, as NOVA was defeated in straight sets 25-17, 25-17. Members of this team were part of NOVA 17 Navy's 2022 9th place finish in the 17 American division a season ago. Here are some of the highlight athletes on this team:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='169493' first='Jocelyn' last='Jourdan'] - Outside Hitter<br>The offensive leader for this team, Jourdan's arm produced some big points with a high volume weekend given her ability to swing with range and power. The all-tournament selection is headed to Youngstown State.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Giana Mutersbaugh </strong>- Libero<br>A reliable part of this team's effort all season, Mutersbaugh created good opportunities for her team's offense both in serve receive and defensively. She prepares with good balance that helps her reactions to be efficient through the first contact. She was selected to the all-tournament team and will play at Wheeling University.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='114555' first='Natalie' last='Stepanovic']h - Outside Hitter<br>The Robert Morris commit was a big threat and contributor throughout the weekend. The all-tournament selection scored a lot of points with her power, movement and finesse while also contributing well with her ball control and defense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='141706' first='Allana' last='Appleby'] - Middle<br>A new addition to this team this season, Appleby made a big impact. She provided athleticism and physicality in this position unlike what this group had a season ago. The Cleveland State commit can play well above the net on both sides of the ball.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Catie Flohr</strong> - Middle Hitter<br>Flohr has good physicality and versatility to be able to score from anywhere on the floor. She elevates well and can generate big pace. Her athleticism benefits her on the defensive side at the net also as she can put good pressure on opposing attackers when blocking. She will play at Seton Hill next season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->