Grinnell Volleyball Battles Central in Five-Set Thriller

On September 27, 2024, the Grinnell College volleyball team took on Central College in a tense, back-and-forth match at Darby Gym. The Pioneers came out on top with a 3-2 victory, pushing their season record to 12-5. Grinnell secured the win with set scores of 25-21, 16-25, 25-23, 20-25, and 15-11.

Millie Leonard led Grinnell’s attack with 20 kills, hitting .349, while Jenna Keller contributed 14 kills, seven digs, and a block. Setter Hayley Taka was a crucial playmaker, tallying 34 assists and six digs. Emily Brewer also chipped in with strong defense, notching 32 digs to keep the Pioneers in the game.

After splitting the first four sets, Grinnell found their rhythm in the decisive fifth set. The Pioneers capitalized on strong serving and a solid defense, with key kills from Keller and Leonard sealing the win.

Central’s Gracie Pierson led her team with 14 kills, but Grinnell’s defense, led by Sophie Weber with 24 digs, held strong to edge out the victory.

The Pioneers will look to build on this thrilling win as they continue their conference play next week.