Ellendale, ND -- North Central University (NCU) Volleyball hit the road Friday to open the season against the Trinity Bible College (TBC) Lions. Even with the long long road trip to Ellendale, North Dakota, the Rams came ready to play. NCU would take each of the first three sets by double-digit points, to sweep the Lions 3-0 and start the 2023 season off with a bang. 

The first set would begin with multiple errors on both sides, keeping things tight early. However, it was not long before the Blue and Gold would find their rhythm, going on a 6-point run to make the score 9-3. Sophomore Maci Tripp (Waupaca, WI) would fuel this run with her two service aces and one assist. The Lions would struggle defensively, committing 8 total errors and allowing 5 service aces by the Rams. NCU would cruise to the early advantage, easily taking set one 25-12.

Set two would be much of the same, as TBC would have a crushing 10m errors and North Central would continue their strong play. Late in the set, middle hitter Lexie Semrau (Bloomington, MN) would take over, forming a connection with her junior setter Grace Brigson (West Salem, WI) to post 3 kills. North Central would take a commanding 2-0 lead with a 25-13 set two win. 

The Blue and Gold did not let up one bit, looking to put this one away in a hurry. Captain Hailey Lerfald (Wanamingo, MN) would put together a solid performance with 3 kills in set three and 7 kills/3 blocks on the night. Freshman Sydney Carlson (Blaine, MN) had an impressive showing in her first collegiate action with 7 total kills and 2 blocks. The Rams would have 14 kills in set three to put the Lions away 25-15.

Box score can be found here.

Looking Ahead:

The Rams will host the annual Minneapolis Invite next Friday/Saturday. Their first matchup is a familiar one, as the Rams will face off yet again with the Trinity Bible College Lions at 3:00pm!

All fans are encouraged to tune into the official Rams Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter pages for updates on Rams Volleyball and all things NCU Athletics.