Grinnell Sweeps Bethany Lutheran in Season Opener

GRINNELL, Iowa — August 29, 2025
The Grinnell College women’s volleyball team opened the 2025 season with a 3–0 sweep of Bethany Lutheran at Darby Gymnasium. The Pioneers won by set scores of 27–25, 25–20, and 25–19.

First Set

Bethany Lutheran built an early lead behind strong serving from Abby Distad and Maddie Meyer, but Grinnell rallied late. The set featured five lead changes and four ties. Grinnell secured the frame 27–25 on an attack error by Bethany Lutheran.

Second Set

Grinnell carried momentum into the second set, establishing control with efficient attacking. The Pioneers hit .240 in the frame while holding the Vikings in check. Grinnell closed the set 25–20, taking a 2–0 match lead.

Third Set

The Pioneers dominated early in the third set with a 16–10 advantage before Bethany Lutheran closed the gap slightly. Grinnell’s balanced attack and serving pressure secured the match with a 25–19 victory.

Team Performance

Grinnell finished the night with 47 kills and a .324 hitting percentage, while Bethany Lutheran tallied 63 kills but committed more errors, hitting .272 overall. Grinnell recorded one team block compared to six for Bethany Lutheran, but the Pioneers’ serve reception and digging numbers helped offset the Vikings’ net play.

Statistical Leaders

Grinnell: Millie Leonard led with 13 kills on .538 hitting, while Marlowe Hurst contributed seven kills and seven digs. Kylie-Ann Smith anchored the defense with 13 digs, and Leticia Machado added nine kills with a .444 hitting percentage.

Bethany Lutheran: Maddie Meyer posted 15 kills, while Lilly Mehrkens added 17. Abby Distad distributed 48 assists and tallied 25 digs. Libero Kylie Smidt led the back row with 19 digs.

Match Notes

The contest lasted 1 hour and 14 minutes and drew an attendance of 125 at Darby Gym. Officials for the match were Kurtis Trout and David Rodgers. Grinnell begins the season 1–0, while Bethany Lutheran falls to 0–1.