The IUS Volleyball team started fast but sputtered late in a 3-1 loss at home to Spalding University, 18-25, 25-22, 25-23, 25-21.

IU Southeast jumped ahead 10-7 in the second game, but the Golden Eagles capitalized on the Grenadiers’ struggles at the net to tie the match.

“We still do struggle with consistency,” IUS assistant coach Angie Buckingham said. “We’re trying to find our rhythm.”

The third game was more of the same, with IU Southeast gaining an early lead only to have Spalding rally to take the game after four ties. The Grenadiers defensive effort could not overcome the strong serves and net play of the Golden Eagles.

Spalding raced out to a 16-10 lead in the fourth behind the strong net play of freshman outside hitter Paige Dellis, who led the Golden Eagles with 19 kills and three aces.

There was a scary moment in the fourth as junior middle hitter Vanessa Stauble suffered an ankle injury that Buckingham said wasn’t serious. Stauble finished with six kills.
Junior right side hitter Lindsey Williams led the Grenadiers with 10 kills and three blocks.

IU Southeast drew within two at 23-21, but Spalding scored the next two points to take the game and the match.

Freshman Libero Cassie Boone said despite the loss, the team’s attitude is upbeat and they are on their way to improvement.

“We want a winning record this season,” Boone said.

That goal may be a challenge, especially after three straight losses following four wins in a row to fall to 5-10.

The team finished a stretch where they played six matches in eight days, and Buckingham said fatigue may have been a factor in the team’s play.

“I know it’s been difficult for the girls to find energy,” Buckingham said.

By MATTHEW LEE MILLER
Staff Writer
mlm5@ius.edu