Rochester, NY – The 2006 Geneva College volleyball season will be remembered for the school′s first ever Division title. On Saturday, the Golden Tornadoes had an opportunity to advance to their first NAIA regional tournament, but came up on the short end of a 3-1 decision to Mt. Vernon Nazarene University it what turns out to be Geneva′s season finale. The Golden Tornadoes ended their season with an overall record of 16-20, but that mark certainly does not tell the whole story of how they rallied back from mid-season disappointment to capture a share of the AMC North regular season title.
On Saturday, Geneva and Mt. Vernon squared off in a fifth place consolation match with the winner advancing to next week′s regional tournament in Canton, OH. The Golden Tornadoes could not recover from a slow start that saw them fall down two games to zero. Geneva did rally for a victory in game three 32-30, but Mt. Vernon proved to be too tough as the Cougars registered their 30th victory of the season.
Marisa Barickman, Geneva′s all-time kills leader, finished her career in style with 21 kills, three blocks and 24 digs. Freshman Michelle Zimmovan was solid with seven kills and six blocks. Caryn Azure, also playing her final match, posted 52 assists and four service aces.