WILMORE, Ky. --- The Asbury volleyball team (21-7, 15-1 CCS) earned a decisive victory in the Collegiate Conference of the South (CCS) Semifinals over LaGrange College (13-20, 10-6 CCS), in Wilmore, Ky., on Friday night. AU showcased a strong performance throughout the four-set match, concluding with a final score of Asbury University 3, LaGrange 1.
The match opened with Asbury firmly establishing their lead, outscoring LaGrange 25-13 in the first set. Despite a slight setback in the second set with a close 26-24 loss, the Eagles swiftly regained their momentum, winning the third set 25-16 and sealing their victory with a 25-14 score in the fourth set.
CCS Defensive Player of the Year, Riley McChord's all-around performance was particularly noteworthy for Asbury; she not only provided 31 digs but also served four aces, while also achieving a personal milestone of 1,500 career digs at AU.
In addition to McChord, key players for Asbury made significant contributions across all areas of the game. Isabelle VandeSchraaf led the Eagles with an impressive 17 kills, followed by Sidney Haysley and Sophie Glushchak who contributed 12 and 11 kills. Defensively, Megan Schelling, Sophie Glushchak, and Emma Dean each recorded two blocks.
The Eagles' teamwork was further highlighted by effective assists from Sara Beth Gray, who provided 25 assists, enhancing the team's tactical execution.
Looking ahead, Asbury University is poised to face the No. 2 seed Maryville in the CCS Championship slated for Saturday at 1 pm. The matchup will be the first ever opportunity for Asbury volleyball in the CCS Championship.
"We are approaching every game like a business trip and I think that's what we did. We took care of business."
Riley McChord | Sr. | Communications | Lexington, Ky.
* Isabelle VandeSchraaf | 17 Kills, 13 Digs, 11th Double-Double
* Riley McChord | 31 Digs, 4 Aces, 1,500 Career Digs at Asbury
* Sidney Haysley | 12 Kills
* Sara Beth Gray | 25 AST, 2 Aces
Asbury will host Maryville on Saturday at 1 pm in the CCS Championship, for an automatic bid to the NCAA Division III Tournament.
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