BETHLEHEM, Pa. - It was not easy, but in the end the top-seeded Northampton women's volleyball team edged Harrisburg Area Community College, 3-2, to claim the 9th Region 19 Championship in program history and punch their ticket to the NJCAA National Tournament in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

After dropping the first two sets, 25-18, 25-21, the Spartans found themselves on the brink of elimination. Northampton rallied to take the 3rd set 25-22 and then dominated action in the 4th set to even the match at 2-2.

In the winner-take-all 5th set, the Spartans took an early lead and were up 10-6, before falling behind 13-12.  Northampton then rattled off 3 straight points to take the 15-13 victory and clinch the Region 19 Championship. 

"What can I say," remarked Head Coach Rachael Caywood, "these girls are amazing, they don't quit.  Down 2-0 and then fighting to win that 3rd set and then facing elimination again down 13-12 in the 5th, I'm just so proud of their fight and perseverance."

Ayana Bomani (Bethlehem, PA/Liberty) recorded 14 kills, 22 digs and 8 blocks, while Kailen Felty (Pine Grove, PA/Pine Grove) had 8 kills, 5 service aces, 19 digs and 12 blocks. 

Joy Wetzel (Bath, PA/Bethlehem Catholic) added 6 kills and 10 blocks and setter Leana Angelone (Coopersburg, PA/Faith Christian Academy) was credited with 33 assists and 24 digs. 

The win moves Northampton to 15-0 overall, while 5th seeded Harrisburg finishes 11-8. 

The Spartans now advance to their 7th NJCAA National  Tournament in program history, scheduled for November 9-11 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

All Tournament Team
MVP - Ayana Bomani (Bethlehem, PA/Liberty) (Northampton)
Mackenzie Davis (Warsaw, VA/Rappahannock (VA)) (Northampton)
Kailen Felty (Pine Grove, PA/Pine Grove) (Northampton)
Mackenzie Maass (HACC)
Kaitlin Pluta (HACC)

Northampton Volleyball Region 19 Championships (9)
2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022, 2023

Northampton Volleyball NJCAA District Championships (7)
2013, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022, 2023