Box Score WINTER HAVEN — Polk State Volleyball was unable to take down the reigning national champions but made a strong early showing on Saturday. The Eagles ultimately fell to No. 1 Florida SouthWestern State College, 3-0.

The Eagles fell 25-22 in the opening set but gave a commendable effort. Ella Langstrom and Marina Santos combined for a block for the first point of the match. The Buccaneers responded with a 6-2 run but Polk State trailed by just two before Florida SouthWestern ultimately closed out the set.

Polk State wasn't quite as competitive over the final two sets. The Buccaneers closed things out with 25-7 and 25-16 wins.

Sarah Boe Soerenson led the Eagles with six kills and seven digs. Alexia Ortiz added a pair of aces. Addison Phillippe had all nine assists for Polk State and one ace.

Florida SouthWestern's Letizia Okonofua finished with a match-high 12 kills. Sarah Webb added 12 digs for the Buccaneers. 

Polk State (7-12, 2-7 Citrus Conference) will look to bounce back on Wednesday against Daytona State College. The Eagles will celebrate Sophomore Night and honor all four sophomores prior to the 6 p.m. match.