Volleyball Pushes Stephens to Their Limit

Lindsborg, Kan.-The Sterling College volleyball team was tested in their endurance this past Saturday against the Stephens College Stars in a non-conference game. In a rigorous five-set match, the Warriors were unable to snatch a final win from the Stars, bringing their overall record to 7-4.

The Warriors had a slow start in the first set, unable to take a lead against the Stars. It was a set of runs and the Stars were able to come away with one more run than the Warriors. Stephens collected the final four points of the set, finishing the set at 25-17.

The second match came with renewed energy by the Warriors, gaining an early lead and maintaining it through much of the match. But after a number of attacking errors by the Warriors, the Stars tied the score late into the match. The two teams battled back and forth and eventually needed extra points to determine the set winner. The Stars took a late win after an attacking error and a kill, finishing the set 28-26.

With the game on the line, the Warriors fought for a win in the third set, stealing the chance of a sweep for the Stars. Much like the last set, the Warriors set an early lead, but this time they kept it for the entire match. The Warriors were much more successful at the net, building their momentum and came out victorious in the attack. The Warriors pulled out a 25-20 win, putting themselves back into the game, trailing 2 sets to 1.

The fight was not over, however, as the Warriors were still down a set. The fourth match proved to be a test of spirit for both teams, as the score remained tight throughout the game. The Warriors took an early lead, and while maintaining it for the win, had to earn their victory after a vigorous attack by the Stars. The Warriors locked in their win 25-22 and tied the sets to 2-2, bringing the game into a fifth set.

The Warriors and the Stars had a hearty battle in the final set, keeping the score close and exchanging leads. Late into the set the Warriors lost the lead due to an attacking error and were unable to find their rhythm. The Stars snatched the final set and the match with a score of 15-12.

The Warriors had a strong presence at the net, with Emily Peterson and Aliya McClanahan leading in kills with 14 and 13, respectively. Aubrey Young continues to be the primary setter for the Warriors, accomplishing 32 assists in the match. Makenna Linden played a strong defensive match, pulling up 15 digs for the Warriors.

The Warriors continue their conference season against York University at their home court, on Sept. 20. The game starts at 7 p.m. They then battle against Avila University on Sept. 22, game starting at 6 p.m.

Be sure to check for news and updates on Sterling Warrior Athletics on Facebook (/SCWarriors), Twitter (@SterlingCSports), and Instagram (sterlingcsports), as well as the hashtag #SwordsUp. Watch all of the Warriors' live home events on the Sterling College Sports Network.