Crucial conference win for Central volleyball team

PELLA – Surviving a five-set thriller, the Central College volleyball team earned its first American Rivers Conference victory Friday night against Nebraska Wesleyan University.

Central (14-11, 1-4 conference) won the first two sets 26-24, 25-23 but lost the next two by identical scores. The Dutch won the final set 15-11 to secure the victory over Nebraska Wesleyan (14-9, 2-3 conference).

“A lot of teams would back down when you’re battling and the first four sets are decided by two points,” coach Jeanne Czipri said. “I am grateful for our athletes staying mentally tough and playing to win. They didn’t play safe or scared or hesitant.”

Nineteen of Central’s 62 kills were credited to middle hitter Kaitlyn Mumm (senior, Waukee, Des Moines Christian HS). She had a hitting a percentage of .581 and was involved on four blocks.

“Even as they were serving her tough, we found a way to get her the ball,” Czipri said.

Paige Sexton (senior, Sheridan, Ill., Serena HS) also gave the Dutch 14 kills.

“She’s put in some really great practices recently,” Czipri said. “She’s finding some good shots and working through and making good decisions. It was good to see her be aggressively smart against a tough defensive team.”

Maelyn Wainwright (junior, West Liberty) led the team with six blocks. Alexis Crowley (sophomore, Romeoville, Ill.) had a team-high 24 digs. Grace Corey (sophomore, Watertown, S.D.) paced the squad with 28 assists.

Peyton Curley (sophomore, Fairbank, Wapsie Valley HS) had three service aces and 14 digs. The sophomore started the fall with the junior varsity roster but has taken on an increased role in the last two weeks

“The cool thing about our program is regardless of where you’re at, if you show up and put in the work you’re going to get better,” Czipri said. “She’s a prime example of working hard every semester she’s been here. She’s just making plays right now. She’s an athlete and she’s tough.”