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Allen University

AU Volleyball Home Opener

Women's Volleyball

Lady Yellow Jackets Set for Home Debut vs. Erskine with Military & First Responder Appreciation Night

After a Hard-Fought Road Stretch, Allen Seeks Redemption in Patriotic Home Opener

Gameday Preview: Volleyball | 9/11/2025 | By Phil Jackson, Allen University Sports Information Director

Columbia, SC – September 11, 2025

The Allen University women's volleyball team returns to the court tonight for its highly anticipated home opener—and they'll do so in front of a passionate home crowd honoring Military and First Responders Appreciation Night.

After a two-game road stretch to start the 2025 season, the Lady Yellow Jackets come home with a 1–1 record and a renewed sense of urgency. Their most recent outing—a dramatic five-set thriller at Livingstone College—saw Allen push the Blue Bears to the brink before falling in the final frame.

Despite the loss, the performance left a lasting impression. Amaya Bernardo led the way with 17 kills, JaNiya Lamar posted an incredible 35 digs, and Zyara Harrison and Tamia Horton combined for over 30 assists. The match showed this team's grit, depth, and promise.

Now, with momentum built and lessons learned, Allen is set to host Erskine College in a match-up that promises high energy, intense rallies, and an atmosphere charged with gratitude and pride. Fans attending Saturday's match-up are encouraged to wear camouflage or patriotic gear as the university celebrates local heroes who serve in the military, police, fire, and emergency services.

Players to Watch

  • Amaya Bernardo: Coming off a 17-kill performance, she'll continue to be Allen's offensive spark plug at the net.
  • JaNiya Lamar: With 35 digs in the last match, Lamar is the defensive backbone and key to Allen's transition game.
  • Zyara Harrision & Tamia Horton: The dual-setter threat keeps opponents guessing and feeds the offense with consistency.
  • Saige Bradley: A force at the net, her blocking ability will be critical in controlling Erskine's attack.
  • Maliyah Spencer: Senior leader with a consistent 15 kills in two-games.

Match Info

  • Opponent: Erskine College
  • Date: Thursday, September 11, 2025
  • Time: 7:00PM
  • Location: Allen University Gymnasium (Columbia, SC)
  • Theme: Military & First Responder Appreciation Game

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Players Mentioned

Maliyah Spencer

#14 Maliyah Spencer

OH
6' 2"
Junior
Amaya Bernardo

#10 Amaya Bernardo

UTL
5' 9"
Redshirt Sophomore
Zyara Harrision

#18 Zyara Harrision

S
5' 2"
Senior
Saige Bradley

#23 Saige Bradley

MB
Graduate Student
JaNiya Lamar

#10 JaNiya Lamar

DS
5' 7"
Junior
Tamia Horton

#17 Tamia Horton

S
Freshman

Players Mentioned

Maliyah Spencer

#14 Maliyah Spencer

6' 2"
Junior
OH
Amaya Bernardo

#10 Amaya Bernardo

5' 9"
Redshirt Sophomore
UTL
Zyara Harrision

#18 Zyara Harrision

5' 2"
Senior
S
Saige Bradley

#23 Saige Bradley

Graduate Student
MB
JaNiya Lamar

#10 JaNiya Lamar

5' 7"
Junior
DS
Tamia Horton

#17 Tamia Horton

Freshman
S