Smith’s triple-double spurs Central to volleyball win

PELLA — Reaching double digit totals in three statistical categories, senior setter Amanda Smith (Tipton) led the Central College volleyball team to a 3-1 victory over Monmouth College (Ill.).

Central (9-15) needed four sets to put away Monmouth (11-13) to the tune of 25-14, 25-19, 24-26, 25-23.

Smith led the team in kills (18) and assists (28) while also adding 10 digs to record a triple-double.

“She lit it up tonight,” coach Jeanne Czipri said. “That stat line is pretty impressive.”

Smith was one five Central seniors to put up big numbers. Natalie Gaszynski (outside hitter, Huntley, Ill.) had 11 kills while Rachel Pella (middle hitter, Kansas City, Mo., Park Hill HS) and Taylor Richards (outside hitter, Ankeny) each had seven. Adisyn Illg (senior, setter, Johnsburg, Ill.) had 17 assists.

“It was a fun match,” Czipri said. “Our seniors showed up and the rest of the team showed up for the seniors.”

In her first match as libero, Ashli Harn (freshman, Waverly, Waverly-Shell Rock HS) had 18 digs. Harn also had three service aces.

“She did an amazing job,” Czipri said.

The Dutch registered 10 total blocks. Pella, Richards and Emma Wagler (sophomore, Des Moines, Roosevelt HS) each had two solo blocks.

Central finishes the season Saturday at 1 p.m. against Wheaton College (Ill.)

“Wheaton is a good team,” Czipri said. “I hope we show up and play for each other and play to win.”