MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. - With strong performances from a multitude of players, the Rams volleyball team was able to roll out a 2-0 record on the day while competing against regional NCCAA foes, Trinity Bible College and Oak Hills Christian. After enduring a rough stretch of matches, the Rams were in need of a solid outing and found just that on the day. The Rams were led by returning UMAC all-conference player Emma Middendorf as she tallied a combined 27 kills and 11 blocks on the day. In addition to Middendorf's individual effort, the Rams received a valuable performance from Maddie Stocker as she tallied 39 digs on the day. 

Match Vitals:

• After battling for most of the first match against Oak Hills, the Rams were able to completely dominate the fifth set by a score of 15-6.

• 27 kills on the day is Emma Middendorf's highest single-day total of the season.

• This is the first time this season that the Rams have gone 2-0 on a day.

Match Recaps:

• In the first match of the day, the Rams found themselves in a fight as they battled Oak Hills to a 3-2 victory. The Rams suffered immensely from self-inflicted errors that allowed for the match to stay close. In the fifth set though, the Rams were able to get everything rolling as they dominated the deciding set with a score of 15-6. The Rams were led in the match by Emma Middendorf (17 kills, 5 blocks), Alice Cato (14 kills, 6 blocks), and Emily DiGiorgio (13 kills, 6 blocks).

• During the second match of the day, North Central University played familiar foe and longtime rival Trinity Bible College in what would turn into a solid 3-0 victory for the Rams. Maddie Stocker (23 digs, 1 assist) and Rachel Beckman (10 digs, 14 assists, and 5 kills) would help to lead the way for the Rams. The Rams showed an increasing amount of mental fortitude by finishing out the Lions of Trinity in three highly contested sets.

Key Performers:

• Emma Middendorf - 27 kills, 11 blocks

• Maddie Stocker - 39 digs, 3 assists

• Emily DiGiorgio - 23 kills, 8 blocks, 1 dig

Next Up:

The Rams currently sit in 7th place (ahead of Crown College and Northland College) in the UMAC standings as they head into the second half of UMAC matches this week. Rams fans can catch the team back in action on Tuesday, October 2nd at Martin Luther (7PM).

MEDIA: If you need further information, please contact Justin Brown at 612-343-3539 or email jdbrown@northcentral.edu.