Simmons, Hartman Reach Double Figures in Loss to Ravens

William Penn University Athletics

Oskaloosa–Home-court advantage was unfortunately not on the menu Friday as the Statesmen volleyball team was swept by Benedictine 3-0 in Heart of America Athletic Conference action.

William Penn (3-14, 0-3 Heart) fell by scores of 20-25, 18-25, 17-25.

The competitors split the night’s first 22 points, but unfortunately the Ravens (5-9, 1-1 Heart) then reeled off the next four points and cruised to the opening-set win.

The hosts appeared on their way to evening the match in the second set, ahead 14-10, but BC came back with a 6-1 run and never trailed again. WPU stayed within striking distance, though, still down just one at 18-17, but the visitors finished with a flurry to take a commanding 2-0 advantage.

The Statesmen claimed another early edge in the final round at 4-3, only to witness Benedictine storm on top and finish the match. WPU was outhit .250-.078 overall with Savanna Hartman (Sr., Morgan Hill, Calif., Psychology) posting the best hitting mark at .273. The senior finished with 11 kills and had a part in two blocks.

Claire Simmons (So., Williamsburg, Iowa, Psychology) topped the Statesmen in kills (12) in addition to aces (3), while Shawni Wills (Sr., Oskaloosa, Iowa, Biology) recorded seven winners.

Kathleen Steffen (So., Vinton, Iowa, Biology) (12 assists) and Haley Smith (So., Adrian, Mich., Elementary Education) (11) split time at the setter position.

Defensively, Ashley Miller (So., Kalona, Iowa, Exercise Science) dug eight BC attempts, while Lilly Martinez (Sr., Oakland, Calif., Psychology) matched Hartman with two blocks (both assists).

Next Up: William Penn remains in Oskaloosa Saturday, hosting Peru State in Heart play at 5 p.m.