ELON, N.C. – Gardner-Webb wrapped up play at the 2018 Phoenix Classic, falling to host Elon in a tightly contested four-set match on Saturday evening.
 
Elon (7-0) took the first two sets by scores of 26-24 and 25-22, but Gardner-Webb (3-3) fought back to take the third set by a score of 25-23.  The Phoenix would be too much for the Runnin' Bulldogs in the fourth set, taking the frame by a 25-13 margin to seal the overall match win.
 
"Although it is never easy to accept a loss, I am pleased and excited about this great group of athletes," said GWU head coach Leo Sayles.  "We battled head-to-head with a strong Colonial Athletic Association opponent with resolve and grit.  We have tremendous potential for success this year."
 
Gardner-Webb tallied 50 kills on 163 swings throughout the evening to attach at a .147 clip.  Elon racked up 53 kills on 165 attempts for a .206 attacking percentage.
 
Kylee Garrison led the GWU attack with 13 kills on 44 swings.  Elizabeth Griffith also reached double-digits in kills with 10 smashes on 31 attempts.  Amanda Sahm led the 'Dogs in assists with 23.
 
Garrison earned All-Tournament team honors for her efforts this weekend, totaling 41 kills on 114 attempts for a .167 attack percentage, as well as 28 digs and three service aces.
 
Charissa Coleman led the way in digs with 20 while Nichole Ford and Hannah Donaldson each had three total blocks.
 
Leah Daniel paced the Elon attack with 18 kills on 40 swings.  Kodi Garcia collected a match-high 42 assists, while Maddie Jaudon had 25 digs to lead the Phoenix.  Alexia Pavlick led Elon on the block with two total blocks.
 
Gardner-Webb returns to action on Thursday, September 6, taking on Charlotte in the opening match of the 2018 Pirate Invitational, hosted by East Carolina.  The match is set for a 4:00 pm start time.