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Newman volleyball hopes to build on early season victories

By Allison Hernandez, Staff Writer

The Newman University volleyball team is gaining momentum after securing three wins this season. 

And even though the Jets lost their most recent match to Pittsburg State in four sets on Tuesday, the earlier wins are a big deal, especially since last year, the team didn’t win a single match.

The Jets broke their losing streak by dominating Roosevelt University in a 3-0 sweep on Sept. 13, then followed up with 3-1 victories against both Southwest Baptist University on Sept. 24 and William Jewell College on Oct. 1. 

The team's record now sits at 3-16. 

Graduate assistant coach McKenzie Weaver said that the team’s wins so far this year reflect the hard work players have been putting in.

“It makes me feel so proud of our girls,” Weaver said. “It’s just the beginning, and I think having these wins will spark the confidence and fire in them.”

Weaver highlighted the players’ ability to control their side of the net and capitalize on the energy from their home crowd as essential elements in their recent victories. All three of their wins have all been at home.

“Having the home-game atmosphere contributes a lot of energy that we’ve been missing when we’re on the road,” Weaver said. “We are all so thankful for the support from the student body.”

In the recent 3-1 win against William Jewell, the Jets' offense thrived, led by setter Avery Dempsey, who recorded a career-high 41 assists through four sets. Middle hitter Ozioma Ajekwu was dominant, racking up 17 kills on 33 attempts. McKenna Rhodes added 13 kills, while libero Natalie Trigo anchored the defense with 21 digs in a strong all-around team performance.

Despite their recent success, Weaver said that the Jets still face challenges.

“The biggest factor we have to overcome is staying consistent throughout every game, whether we are home or away,” she said. “We have to strive to be consistently good instead of occasionally great.”

Weaver said that the team is still in a building phase and that she urges the players to trust the process. 

“We remind the players that their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed, but we can’t be satisfied with just one good play, set, or game,” Weaver said.

The Jets will play at home twice this weekend: against Missouri Southern State University at 6 p.m. Friday and against Central Missouri at 3 p.m. on Saturday.

“As the team continues to develop and work toward consistency, these upcoming games will be important in maintaining their recent momentum.” Weaver said.

PHOTO: Courtesy, Newman Athletics