WINGATE, N.C. -- The Trojans are headed to the Sweet Sixteen for the second time in program history after earning a 3-1 win over No. 2 Lenoir-Rhyne by scores of 29-27, 20-25, 25-9 and 25-18 in the NCAA Southeast Regional Semifinal.

"I felt like we were good in all aspects of the match with the exception of some back to back missed serves," head coach Todd Hay said. "Our middles worked so hard and their stats speak for themselves with a combined 31 kills and 18 blocks. Their offense, Ellie's setting, and just a great overall defensive effort came together at the right time."

It was a historic night at the net for the Trojans who finished with 18 blocks, the second-highest total in program history. The middles combined for the total, with junior Emily Campbell (Statesville, N.C.) putting her name in the record book with 12 blocks, the third-highest total in program history. Sophomore Maura Kindel (Easley, S.C.) added six. 

The middles were leading the offense as well, with Campbell putting up 17 kills on a .424 clip. Kindel had a career-high 14 kills with just one error for a .500 hitting percentage. 

Sophomore Mia Elder (Leland, N.C.) came up with 16 kills on a .364 clip. 

Junior Ellie Nieporte (Boca Raton, Fla.) dished out 53 assists with seven digs, four blocks and two aces.

Freshman Jamie Juhnevicz (Taylors, S.C.) led the back line with 17 digs while freshman Kaleigh Garren (Anderson, S.C.) picked up 13 digs and one ace. Senior Katy Smith (Fleming Island, Fla.) added 12 digs. 

The Trojans were ready to fight in the fourth meeting of the season between the two teams that featured 14 lead changes and 32 tie scores. The offense hit at a .276 clip on Nieporte's 53 assists. They came up with 59 kills, 72 digs and six aces.

"Any coach will tell you they want their team to play their best towards the end of the season. Tonight was a good example of that. Really proud of the team."

The Trojans will battle for the Regional Championship tomorrow, Dec. 6th at 4 p.m. against No. 1 Wingate University.