Women’s volleyball team wins first round of NCAA DII West Showcase

Chico State women’s volleyball practices spiking before their game. Photo credit: Jordan Jarrell

The Chico State women’s volleyball team swept the University of Alaska Fairbanks Nanooks on Sept. 8 in the first round of the NCAA DII West Region Volleyball Showcase.

The game brings the ‘Cats win streak to fours and extends their overall season record to 4-1.

An early service ace and a kill by junior outside hitter Olivia Mediano gave Chico State the lead in the first set. The Nanooks were forced to call a timeout in the first set after the ‘Cats gained a 12-7, but were unable to take the lead in the set. Mediano closed the set with a kill, winning the first set for Chico State 25-18.

The Nanooks were able to gain an early 2-0 lead in the second set, but were quickly tied by the ‘Cats. While the set remained close with four ties, Chico State lead for the majority of the set, and was able to close out the second set 25-23 with a kill from first year outside hitter Camryn Rocha.

The Nanooks had the most significant lead in the third set, earning a 3-0 advantage off of a service ace and two kills. Chico State was able to tie the game at five, but neither team was able to pull ahead in the game.

A final service ace by junior defensive specialist Shannon Cotton, a kill by junior outside hitter Anna Baytosh gave the ‘Cats a 25-20 lead and a 3-0 win in the game.

Chico State returns to the court in the second round of the Division II West Region Showcase on Sept. 9th against Concordia University.

Key Players:

Camryn Rocha