Graceland Volleyball Hits Stride, Secures Third Straight Victory in Triangular Sweep

Lawrence, KS — Graceland University's women's volleyball team delivered an impressive performance during Friday's triangular match in Lawrence, Kansas, sweeping both Southwestern College (KS) and Haskell Indian Nations University (KS) to bolster their season record. The Yellowjackets exhibited strong teamwork, focus, and resilience, securing both victories in straight sets.

Match Recap: Southwestern College vs. Graceland University

In the opening match against Southwestern College, Graceland displayed consistent power and efficiency. The Yellowjackets managed to secure a 3-0 sweep with set scores of 25-19, 25-20, and 28-26. The team's balanced offensive approach and steady defensive coverage were instrumental in the victory.

Graceland's offensive efforts were led by outside hitter Kaci Young, who posted a .304 hitting percentage with nine kills on 23 attempts. Middle blocker Grace Jensen contributed six kills and three blocks, asserting her presence at the net and supporting the defensive unit with timely interventions. Setter Hailey Kauweloa guided the offense with precision, accumulating 15 assists.

Throughout the match, Graceland capitalized on Southwestern's errors, converting them into points at crucial moments. The Yellowjackets' serve-receive patterns and blocking strategy effectively disrupted Southwestern's offense, which struggled to maintain momentum, finishing with a .024 hitting percentage. By maintaining composure and staying aggressive, Graceland edged out Southwestern in close moments, particularly in the intense third set that required extra points to seal.

Match Recap: Graceland University vs. Haskell Indian Nations University

In the subsequent match against Haskell, Graceland maintained its momentum, closing out the evening with another straight-set victory, 25-23, 25-22, and 25-16. Outside hitter Brenna Crabtree spearheaded the Yellowjackets' attack, achieving 16 kills on a .250 hitting percentage. Crabtree's aggressive net play and consistent shot selection kept Haskell's defense on the back foot.

Grace Jensen again provided solid support with eight kills and two critical digs, while Kaylee Baker's contribution at the net, with four blocks, played a significant role in countering Haskell's hitters. Haskell's Tressa Jim attempted to challenge Graceland's defense with 12 kills, but the Yellowjackets' coordinated blocking and back-row coverage limited her effectiveness.

Graceland's serve game proved crucial in applying pressure to Haskell, with a total of four service aces. Sierra Kauweloa led this effort, tallying two aces that set the tone early in each set. The Yellowjackets were able to limit Haskell's attacking options, resulting in a .091 hitting percentage for their opponents.

Reflecting on the Team's Effort

Head Coach Stew McDole was visibly pleased with his team's overall performance during the rigorous four-day stretch that included three matches and 11 total sets. Reflecting on the team's stamina and focus, McDole noted, "We have just played 11 sets (including the big five-set win over Culver-Stockton in Tuesday's conference home match) of high-level volleyball. With perhaps two or three blips, this has been continuous focused execution over a four-day span. These girls and this team absolutely deserve it with all the hard work they've put in. They have never given up – this feels pretty good."

Looking Ahead

Graceland University returns to the Morden Center next weekend to conclude its home schedule for the 2024 season. The Yellowjackets will host Benedictine College on Friday at 7 p.m. followed by a Saturday matchup against Park University at 5 p.m. The team aims to carry its momentum forward and end the home season on a strong note.

For more information on the Graceland University women's volleyball team and all Yellowjacket athletics, please visit GUjackets.com.