In the Terrapin volleyball team’s 3-1 victory over Long Island on Friday night, the Terps set a record with 22 blocks in the match.

Sparking the block party were redshirt freshman Meredith Doyle and true freshman Katie Usher, who combined for a total of 12 blocks. For the Terps, the young middle blockers were a question mark coming into the season, but they have stepped up and delivered, easing the losses of key senior middle blockers Stephanie Smith and Rachel Wagener.

Smith and Wagener set numerous records in their years with the Terps and were ranked No. 1 and No. 2 in hitting percentage in the ACC last season. The duo holds program records in hitting percentage, block assists and total blocks and are among the leaders in several other categories.

“Our coach reminded us how big a shoe we had to fill,” Doyle said. “They are amazing.”

Wagener joined the team as an assistant coach this year and is making her presence felt by helping the young blockers to fill the gap she left. Wagener said she is proud of Doyle and Usher and feels as though the 22-block performance against Long Island is a sign of things to come.

“I think it shows other teams we’re still strong at blocking,” Wagener said. “It was definitely a great performance.”

Usher, Doyle and redshirt freshman Kathleen Wilson have stepped up in a big way this season, combining for 107 of the team’s 195 blocks. Usher and Doyle lead the team with 51 and 50 total blocks, respectively. Outside hitter Mary Beth Brown is third on the team with 42 blocks.

Usher’s accomplishments as a freshman have been outstanding, especially in team defense, racking up 50 of her 51 blocks as block assists. After being a multi-sport star at Marshall High School in Virginia, she has adapted to the college lifestyle well and asserted herself in the faster speed of the college game.

“I don’t think I could have come in and done what she’s doing as a true freshman,” Doyle said.

Doyle, a towering 6-foot-5 redhead from Virginia, had the advantage of sitting out a year and learning the team’s systems. She has a team-leading nine solo blocks on the year and has also asserted herself on the offensive end with 62 kills – fourth most on the team. Her height may be her greatest asset, as she is often the tallest player on the court.

“She presents an obstacle for teams because of her height and speed,” coach Janice Kruger said. “She can be physically dominant because of her size.”

Wilson, who sat out last year with Doyle, has played the role of third-string middle blocker. She is the shortest of the three, at only 6-foot-1, but is quick and a tough competitor.

As if having to replace Wagener and Smith wasn’t hard enough, all three middle blockers have been forced to overcome obstacles all season.

Doyle has faced spinal issues that have left her in pain and inflexible. Physical therapy and medicine have lessened some of her discomfort, but the potential disk problem could be a long-term issue.

Usher has had to deal with being thrust into a crucial role as a freshman adjusting to college.

And Wilson lacks the height of a typical middle blocker; she hasn’t beaten out Doyle or Usher for playing time yet.

The trio has performed well in their respective roles, but the daunting task of replacing two stars like Wagener and Smith comes with great expectations.

“It is hard to deal with the pressure,” Doyle said. “The team is such a good support group.”

Contact reporter Adi Joseph at ajosephdbk@gmail.com.