Grinnell Defeats Lewis & Clark in Four Sets
In an intense matchup at the Leonard Center on September 14, 2024, the Grinnell Pioneers secured a 3-1 victory over the Lewis & Clark Pioneers, bringing their record to 9-2 for the season. Despite a strong effort by Lewis & Clark, Grinnell held firm after dropping the first set, ultimately winning 23-25, 25-14, 25-22, and 25-20.
Grinnell started slow in the first set, falling to Lewis & Clark despite a late rally. Millie Leonard and Hayley Taka led the offensive effort with powerful kills, but errors plagued the team early on. Grinnell bounced back in the second set, controlling the tempo with sharp serves and effective attacks. Leonard was key to the comeback, finishing the match with 21 kills and a .375 hitting percentage.
Hayley Taka provided critical support with 14 kills and a .357 hitting percentage, while Jenna Keller added 12 kills and three service aces. Emily Brewer’s leadership was evident, as she notched 31 assists and eight digs, setting up key plays that turned the tide for Grinnell.
Lewis & Clark opened the match strong, taking advantage of Grinnell’s errors in the first set. Ruby Kuerschner led Lewis & Clark with 18 digs and 9 kills, while Emily Strand had 12 kills and hit .240. However, the team couldn’t sustain its early momentum and struggled with consistency in the latter sets, committing 21 attack errors.
Grinnell’s blocking was a decisive factor, accumulating 5 total blocks compared to Lewis & Clark’s 1. The defense, anchored by Sophie Weber’s 13 digs and Keira Sullivan’s consistent back-row play, stifled the Lewis & Clark offense as the match progressed.
After losing the first set 25-23, Grinnell dominated the second, holding Lewis & Clark to just 14 points. The third and fourth sets were competitive, but Grinnell’s firepower and defensive pressure proved too much for Lewis & Clark to handle.
With this win, Grinnell continues to build momentum as they advance in the season, while Lewis & Clark drops to 0-6.
Key Players for Grinnell:
Millie Leonard: 21 kills, .375 hitting percentage
Hayley Taka: 14 kills, .357 hitting percentage
Emily Brewer: 31 assists, 8 digs
Sophie Weber: 13 digs
Key Players for Lewis & Clark:
Ruby Kuerschner: 9 kills, 18 digs
Emily Strand: 12 kills, .240 hitting percentage
