PLATTSBURGH, N.Y.—The SUNY Potsdam volleyball team (2-0) rolled to a 3-0 win over the Sage Colleges and gutted out a 3-2 victory over Plymouth State on Day 1 of the Cardinal Classic. The two wins combined with victories by both soccer teams gave Bears Athletics a perfect 4-0 start to the 2017-18 season.
 
In the opener against the Gators, the Bears rolled to 25-17, 25-22 and 25-14 victories. Senior outside hitter Kelsey Tompkins (Vestal, N.Y./Vestal) led the charge with 14 kills. Junior setter Brianna Rodda (Holbrook, N.Y./Sachem East) started the season off strong with 25 assists and eight digs, while junior defensive specialist Maddie Kaplan (Plattsburgh, N.Y./Peru) led the team with 14 digs. Senior outside hitter Rachel Topf (Eagle River, Alaska/Chugiak) contributed 10 digs, three assists, and three aces. Sophomore outside hitter Gabrielle Scott (Webster, N.Y./Webster Thomas) recorded six digs, five kills, and two aces.     
 
Potsdam was tested more by the Panthers in the finale, but never trailed. The Bears and Plymouth State alternated 25-23, 20-25, 25-21, 23-25 and 15-12 decisions. Tompkins had another big match with 17 kills and five blocks. Rodda had 41 assists and three aces. Sophomore outside hitter Gabrielle Scott (Webster, N.Y./Webster Thomas) registered a well-rounded effort with six kills, two blocks, and a team-high 21 digs. Kaplan posted 19 digs and senior captain Kelsea Healis (Rohnert, Park, Calif./Rancho Cotate) chipped in 15.
 
The Bears wrap up the tournament with a 1 p.m. showdown against Wheaton College tomorrow afternoon.