SPARTANBURG, S.C.–  Senior Jessica Bartlett paced Francis Marion University with 18 kills as the Patriots spoiled Senior Day for USC Upstate by defeating the Spartans 30-20, 30-27, 34-32, Saturday afternoon (Oct. 29) at the G.B. Hodge Center.

Francis Marion improves to 24-10 overall, equaling the ninth-highest win total in the program's history.  The Patriots now have sole possession of second place in the PBC with an 8-2 mark. The Spartans fall to 20-9 and 8-3.

Freshman setter Jenna Kaiser recorded eight kills, dug out 11 balls, and handed out 38 assists for the Patriots.  Senior Kelly Feber also had eight kills and 17 digs for FMU.   Libero Jessica Strader registered three service aces and 11 digs, while Lezlie Logan and Michelle Settergren each had two solo blocks for the Patriots.

Mandy Rupert recorded a double-double for USC Upstate with 18 kills and 14 digs, while Jennifer Joraskie and Lauren Mrowczynski had 11 and 10 kills respectively.  Shannon Pallardy led USC Upstate in assists with 28, while Holly Mauldin contributed 13 helpers.  Brittany Harry led the Spartans' defense with 17 digs.  She now moves into second place on all-time career digs list at USC Upstate with 1,364 career digs.