WPU Opens Kansas Trip with Loss to MNU

William Penn University Athletics

Olathe, Kan.–The Statesmen volleyball team had a rough Friday night as it was swept 3-0 by #11 MidAmerica Nazarene in Heart of America Athletic Conference play.

William Penn (4-21, 0-9 Heart) lost by scores of 16-25, 9-25, 15-25.

The visitors failed hold a lead in the opening set, but stayed within striking distance as it only trailed 17-15. Unfortunately, the Pioneers (18-6, 5-1 Heart) closed on an 8-1 run for the win.

Few things went right in the second round as the navy and gold fell behind 2-0 in the match. WPU was unable to steal the momentum in the final set to wrap up the contest.

Shawni Wills (Sr., Oskaloosa, Iowa, Biology) recorded team bests in kills (7) and attack percentage (.211), while Lilly Martinez (Sr., Oakland, Calif., Psychology) and Nicole Harrison (Sr., San Diego, Calif., Biology) both added four winning hits.

Kathleen Steffen (So., Vinton, Iowa, Biology) tallied 13 assists and Ashley Miller (So., Kalona, Iowa, Exercise Science) topped the defense with seven digs. Harrison was the best at the defensive net with two solo blocks and one block assist.

Next Up: William Penn travels to Baldwin City, Kan. Saturday to face Baker in Heart action at 6 p.m.