Jason Walker, UP Sports Information Director 

Mesa, Ariz., September 2, 2022 – A trip to the desert and a chance to pick up a few wins was on the minds of the University of Providence volleyball team, and the Argos jumped out hot Friday night against the Benedictine Mesa Redhawks winning the first two sets in tight fashion. But the home team found its groove winning the next two sets to force a deciding game five which the Redhawks won to take a 3-2 win. Providence fell 25-22, 25-22, 21-25, 11-25, 8-15.  

Jenna Thorne had a double-double with 10 kills and 10 digs to lead the Argos. Providence also saw Adysen Burns and Zoe Naugle each with eight kills with Burns adding three service aces. Bella Thompsen (18) and Taylor DeVries (15) combined for 33 assists on the night, with Taylor Christensen leading the charge with 17 digs. The Argos were out hit by the Redhawks .217 to .110 although Providence had less errors (25-28) and more blocks (11-5) than their opponent, six coming from Naugle alone. Head Coach Arunas Duda says the team is close to turning the corner, "For us right now, we have lost a couple of matches, and we are trying to find a way to win. There were times we were able to stay in that high-level play. We just have to find a way to finish. We are so close, it is coming. We just need more time." 

The Argos fall to 1-7 on the young season and will look to rebound in a hurry when Providence plays Park Gilbert University at the Phoenix Tournament Saturday at 12 pm MDT. The Argos will have Sunday off before playing Arizona Christian University Monday also at 12 pm MDT. Watch both matches and have live stats at www.upargos.com.