Sports Update for Sept. 30

Volleyball

The women had a busy three-day stretch last week, beginning with a trip to Sanford, N.C., on Thursday, Sept. 26, for dual match against Central Carolina Community College. Two days later, the Gators hosted a tri-match at the Boo Williams Sportsplex against Cheney University and Chesapeake College.

Despite not coming away with any wins, the Gators put forth good efforts. The week started with a three-game sweep by Central Carolina. In the tri-match at home, the Gators lost in five sets to Cheney and three sets to Chesapeake College. In the last match, the Gators held the lead in the first set until Ashleigh Yost suffered an ankle injury.

“They played hard but just couldn’t finish,” coach Tommy Thomas said of the two home matches.

Soccer

The Gators had just one match last week, falling 5-2 at Cape Fear Community College (N.C.), on Tuesday, Sept. 24.

Jordan Richardson scored the first goal of the game in the 35th minute to give VPCC the lead, but the hosts tied it before halftime. In the second half, the Sea Devils scored three goals for a 4-1 lead before VPCC’s Cody Cole converted a penalty kick. Cape Fear closed out the scoring with about five minutes left.

“A couple of injuries and fitness caught up with us,” said coach Kevin Darcy, who added he was pleased with the effort his team gave.

The team’s game scheduled for Friday, Sept. 27. at Patrick & Henry Community College was postponed because of rain. A makeup date hasn’t been announced yet.

Coach Jackson honored by area sports club

The Peninsula Sports Club honored Angela Jackson, a former player, coach and administrator at Virginia Peninsula Community College, for her many years of service to the College.

Jackson, who began her association with VPCC in 1979, received a “Milestone” award from the club at a banquet Monday, Sept. 23, at Hampton Seafood Market and Restaurant. Also honored were John “Buster” Jackson, the director of facilities and athletic support at Hampton University for more than 40 years; and Jeff Gross, Poquoson track and girls’ basketball coach for 31 years.

“We are proud of Coach Angela Jackson for receiving the Milestone award from the Peninsula Sports Club,” said athletics director and men’s basketball coach Chris Moore. “Her 45 years of service to Virginia Peninsula Community College athletics has been recognized and we would not be where we are today without her dedication.”

Jackson was a student before becoming a full-time employee and making her mark in athletics. She played one season on the men's basketball team before a women's team was formed, then coached both teams for several years. She also served as an adviser, athletics coordinator, and member of athletics operations. For more on Coach Jackson, click here

The Peninsula Sports Club’s mission is “to provide the Virginia Peninsula with an organization presenting forums for discussion of athletics, athletic contests, and sports programs; to provide scholarships for local high school student athletes; to provide an annual awards night to honor Peninsula athletes; and to provide programs and events for the advancement of Peninsula athletics.”

For sports schedules, go to www.vpccgators.com. For more information on VPCC, visit www.vpcc.edu.