Box Score The North Central University (NCU) volleyball team opened up their season at home facing off against the number 15 nationally ranked conference opponent University of Northwestern (UNW). With a full energized crowd, the Rams were energized start to finish. The eagles won in three sets 25-6, 25-13, and 25-14.
 
The Eagles came out swinging in set number one with a 13 point run. Once the Rams ended the streak with a kill by Talana Rudzitis, the game started picking up for the Rams. NCU's defense forced the Eagles to make multiple attack errors in set number one. McKenna Chick made her freshman debut, leading the team's passing with 11 digs.
 
In set two, NCU had a surge of strong offensive plays lead by sophomore middle hitter Hailey Lerfald and setter Grace Brigson. Our Rams challenged the nationally ranked team's blocking with multiple tool kills and crafty shots. Northwestern still kept their impressive hitting percentage consistent by making minimal errors and fast kills shots. North Central doubled their points, but UNW still coming out on top.
 
The Rams had their best start yet in set three, beating the Eagles 6 to 5. The momentum was lead by sophomore Cara Pence in her starting outside debut. Cara lead the team in kills with 8 kills and an impressive .211 hitting percentage. Northwestern's complex depth and amazing right sides brought the match to an end, sweeping the North Central Rams in three.
 
Key Performers  
Sophomore Cara Pence and Hailey Lerfald lead the Rams with hitting percentages over .200 and a combination of 12 kills.
Grace Brigson returns as the starting setter in her Sophomore year and lead our offense with 15 assists.
In her Freshman debut, Mckenna Chick had a total of 11 digs and was key to the teams impressive serve receive game.
 
Looking Ahead
Our North Central Rams pick the ball back up tomorrow in their highly anticipated Blue and Gold match. This match is at home and will start at 7PM.
We also look forward to the Rams hosting another major tournament next weekend on Friday and Saturday. The NCU invite with be 4 matches in the span of two days. Friday's matches will occur at 3PM and 7PM. Saturdays matches will be at 10AM and 12PM.
 
All fans are encouraged to tune into official Rams Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter pages for updates on all things NCU Athletics.