In an effort to recognize players that show up for the upcoming conference match-ups with an extra sense of urgency, coach Lauren Netherby-Sewell has instituted a new accolade on her team; the Fighting Spirit Award.

“It goes to a player that I think shows a fight,” the head coach said, “and shows that they want to be out there and they want to play the game.”

Talita Silva, who won the award for her efforts against Georgia State on Sunday, stepped up in a way that surprised Netherby-Sewell and the coaching staff.

“She hasn’t seen a lot of time this season, she hasn’t been ready,” Netherby-Sewell said, “but she proved in the match she’s ready to go, and she really gave us that Game 3.”

In the win over Georgia State, Silva, coming off the bench for Game 3, totaled five key kills to help Pride to finish off the sweep.

The team’s coach hinted that the volleyball team will be debuting an “entirely new look” lineup for the upcoming conference games, which include the imminent showdown with Delaware. After coming through in the clutch to help the women bounce back from their upset defeat at the hands of UNC Wilmington, Silva may begin to see her playing time step up in the upcoming weeks, as Netherby-Sewell looks to have a rotation with people “who have shown they are not afraid to play and are ready for competition” this weekend.

Ashley Legerretta puts in extra effort during practice. The women split their first two CAA games, bouncing back from a loss to UNCW with a big win over conference contender Georgia State. (Stephen Cooney)