Newark, N.J. -- Despite double-doubles from Madison Akins and Kayla Weller, the Stetson volleyball team dropped a 3-1 decision in an Atlantic Sun Conference match Sunday afternoon at the Fleisher Athletic Center.
The Hatters (5-11, 0-3 A-Sun) took the opening set 26-24, but the Highlanders (5-14, 1-2 A-Sun) took the next three sets 25-21, 25-15, 25-22 to earn their first conference victory.
Akins finished with 12 kills and 12 digs for her first double-double of the season and the 10th of her career. She also hit a team-high .409 after committing just three errors in 22 attempts.
Outside hitters McKenna Foster (12 kills) and Haley Tippett (10 kills) joined Akins in double digits in kills. Setter Kayla Weller notched her sixth double-double of the season with 30 assists and 10 digs. She also recorded her 100th career service ace.
The Hatters collected 10 team blocks in the match, including six by Shelby Connors and four by Madison Fitzsimmons. Michelle Kastner served three aces.
Danica Vukotic had 20 kills to lead NJIT.
The Hatters will return home next weekend to host USC Upstate on Friday night and Kennesaw State on Saturday afternoon.
