Walla Walla University Athletics

Wolves Fall in Eugene

10/5/2014 9:33:00 AM

Eugene, Oregon - The Walla Walla University women's volleyball team returned to action Saturday night, as they traveled to Eugene, Oregon to take on Northwest Christian University. The Wolves ended up on the losing side of this contest, in a match that was decided in three sets (25-15, 25-20, 25-21).

Sophomore outside hitter Maria Darling played a very strong match, finishing with a team high 12 digs, 12 kills, zero errors, and a game high .667 hitting percentage. Freshman Laruen Barlow contributed six kills, and sophomore Alissa Casey helped her team out with 13 assists.

The Wolves struggled against the height of Northwest Christian, with the Beacon's ability to place the ball right over the front line of defense. Still, Coach Don Hepker felt good about what his team was able to accomplish: "Tonight was a total team effort, everyone contributed."

Senior Amanda Preston had two serving aces, as did RS Freshman Michaela Garcia, who came off the bench. Michaela has been a vocal leader for the team this season, and her play continues to improve as the season progresses. This improvement can really be echoed across the board when looking at the freshman on the team. It can be a challenge to improve in the face of defeat, but the Wolves have shown they are developing and pushing to get better.

"I'm looking forward to playing them in league next year," Coach Hepker said of Northwest Christian, who is a member of the Cascade Collegiate Conference. Walla Walla University will be joining Northwest Christian in the conference at the beginning of the 2015 season.

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