Russell Sage's Cassidy Weiher (12) with one of her 21 sets at the net to set up the Gators points. PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. — The 2026 Cardinal Classic opened Friday night before a packed crowd at Memorial Hall as the host Plattsburgh State Cardinals welcomed the Russell Sage Gators of the Empire 8 Conference. Despite a pair of spirited late rallies, the Cardinals couldn't overcome early deficits as the Gators earned a 3-0 sweep to begin their season with a victory. Russell Sage came out strong in the opening set, building an early advantage and forcing the Cardinals to play from behind. Plattsburgh State refused to go quietly, however, finishing the set with a six-point run that nearly completed a dramatic comeback. The rally fell just short as the Gators held on for a narrow 25-23 victory and a one-set-to-none advantage. The second set followed a similar pattern. Russell Sage once again established control early, while the Cardinals spent much of the frame battling to close the gap. A late surge brought Plattsburgh State within striking distance, but the Gators remained composed in the closing moments and secured another 25-23 win to move within a set of victory. Facing a straight-set defeat, the Cardinals delivered their strongest start of the night in the third set, jumping out to an early lead and energizing the home crowd. Russell Sage gradually worked its way back into contention before overtaking Plattsburgh State during the latter stages of the set. The Gators closed out the match with a 25-21 victory, completing the sweep. Russell Sage was led by Emily Trama and Paige Kemmer, who each finished with 11.5 points in the winning effort as the Gators improved to 1-0 on the season. Plattsburgh State received balanced scoring from Darby Collyear, Liya Girma, and Brooke Anderson, who each recorded nine points. While the Cardinals dropped to 0-2, they showed resilience by battling back from deficits in each of the opening two sets and challenging the Gators deep into the contest. With the opening day complete, both teams will return to action on Saturday in Day 2 of the Cardinal Classic. Plattsburgh State will take on SUNY Potsdam, while Russell Sage will face Hartwick as tournament play continues. Gallery

Plattsburgh State's Iris Mulvey (10) jumps for one of her seven kills on the match as the Cardinals fall at home. Gallery