Reivers Look To Close Season Strong
If there were any certainties for a rare spring season, Iowa Western Volleyball knew that it would definitely be challenge … and every game they'd get to play would be a privilege.
The Reivers closed out the only spring season ever played in program history with a straight set sweep over Otero Junior College. The victory gave the Reivers their 20th victory of the year, finishing the regular season at 20-3 and a perfect 11-0 in ICCAC conference matches.
IWCC needed immediate contributions from a large freshman class and for by and large, the team got what they needed. Freshman setter Yadhira Anchante ranks as the Nation's best in assists per set with 10.98 and has racked up five double-doubles on the year. While middle hitters Elenoa Sing (.355) and Dayan Malave (.423) are currently leading the team in hitting efficiency and blocks with 0.79 and 1.25 blocks per set respectively. Sing turned in her best performance against Northeastern JC with a career high 14 kills in 19 attempts (.684) against Northeastern JC.
Outside hitters, Maike Bertens and Iremnur Elmas have made their impact in the front row. Bertens scored her season high against conference rival Indian Hills with 11 kills in 19 attempts (.579) while Elmas had hers in a match against Mineral Area, hitting .500 with 11 kills in 18 attempts.
Sophomore returners Leah Palensky and Laruen Walenz hold the backcourt up, each averaging over three digs per set. Palensky had a season high of 18 digs against Northeastern JC while Walenz had her season and career high with 21 digs against Jefferson College.
The Reivers depth is one of their big strengths headed into, what they hope is a long postseason run. Reka Kotorman and Larissa Schneid have overcome injury to play key roles, while Emily Knight has turned in solid numbers in her first season with IWCC. Gracie Teeter, Lorraine Perez and Rachel Shonka have been reliable while first years Delaney Esterling, Alaina Bohnet, and Alejandra Marquez have also shown flashes of what they're capable of.
The postseason commences on Friday for the Reivers as they host the District Tournament inside Reiver Arena for a chance to go to the NJCAA National Tournament. The weekend's first match begins at 11:00 am when IWCC takes on Illinois' John A. Logan College. Catch the game on the Reiver Sports Network!