New York, N.Y.- The Hunter College women's volleyball team wrapped up a stellar  CUNYAC season, finishing as the tournament runner-up in a tough 3-1 defeat (17-25, 11-25, 25-21, 22-25) to John Jay in the championship match at the Sportsplex of Friday evening. The Hawks, who entered the game as the top seed after an undefeated conference season, showcased their strength but couldn't overcome the second-seeded Bloodhounds.

After going down 2-0, Hunter  (21-9, 7-0 CUNYAC) found its stride in the third set, winning 25-21 with a .367 hitting percentage, demonstrating the team's potential and adaptability. However, despite their efforts to push the match to a deciding fifth set, the Hawks came up short in the fourth against the Bloodhounds' (21-6, 6-1 CUNYAC) offense.

Regardless the setback, the Hawks showcased moments of resilience, having entered the match as the regular season champions and top seed, following an undefeated City University of New York Athletic Conference (CUNYAC) run. Izabella Williams led the Hawks with 13 kills on 47 attempts, contributing 13 total points while adding 12 digs to bolster the team's defense. Amina Moummad made an impact with eight kills, two service aces, and seven digs, finishing with 11 total points.

Simone McIntyre added nine kills and showcased her defensive prowess with 15 digs, contributing 10 points overall. Setter Bethany Tomaneng paced the offense, tallying 33 assists and adding two kills, while also making key defensive plays with 10 digs.

Erin Dugan was a standout defensively, recording 21 digs to help anchor Hunter's back row. Lily Mattison chipped in with four kills and an impressive four service aces, adding valuable points for the team, while Ana Duran provided a spark off the bench, delivering three kills on limited attempts with a .286 hitting percentage.

After going down 2-0, Hunter found its stride in the third set, winning 25-21 with a .367 hitting percentage, demonstrating the team's potential and adaptability. However, despite their efforts to push the match to a deciding fifth set, the Hawks came up short in the fourth.

The Purple and Gold will shift its focus forward, as the squad awaist seeding for the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) postseason tournament, which will be announced next week. Hunter's remarkable regular season and competitive play in the CUNYAC Championship provide optimism for a deep postseason run.