Charlotte, NC - The Johnson & Wales volleyball team lost in straight sets on Thursday at NCAA Division 2 foe Johnson C. Smith by the scores of 25-18, 25-23, 27-25.

The matchup was billed as "The Purple Match of Honor", in efforts to urge awareness of and help prevent violence.  The game featured Wildcat freshman Kaylin Doctor and Golden Bulls senior Gracyn Doctor, who lost their mother, Rev. DePayne Middleton-Doctor, in the Charleston church shooting this summer.

"Tonight was about more than volleyball, but both teams fought hard on the court in honor of Kaylin's and Gracyn's mother and the sisters' displays of courage and strength as they have dealt with this tragedy," said Johnson & Wales head coach Callie Phillips.  "We were honored to participate in the Purple Match, and if we had to lose, I'm glad that Gracyn got a win in her final match with Johnson & Wales."

Cameron Leonhardt led the way with seven kills for the Wildcats (13-11), while Hailey Thrift finished with 16 assists.  Halle Franklin had 11 digs.

Johnson & Wales will return to action on Saturday when they host the JWU Tri-Match.  The team is scheduled to play Allen University at 1:00 p.m. and Morris College at 4:00 p.m.