by Emily Buss
Issue date: 11/14/06
Section: Womens Sports
A productive season for the Minnesota State volleyball team came to an abrupt end Thursday when the Mavs lost in the first round of play at the NCAA Division II Championship Tournament. This is the first time in three years the team played in the tournament and the team was determined to put everything on the line. They faced off with the Bulldogs of Minnesota Duluth and were quickly defeated. After dropping a close first game with a score of 30-28, the Mavs were unable to recover and lost the next two with scores of 30-24 and 30-25.
"This just goes back to the idea of getting the win when we're down," said head coach Dennis Amundson. "But that is something we'll really work on and really strive to do for next season."
The Mavs were out-hit by the Bulldogs .284 to .202 and the 21 attack errors MSU committed were taken advantage of. The Bulldogs had a strong defense and were led by Vicky Braegelmann who dished out 17 kills and Kari Wolford who had 15 kills. Ashley Nachreiner and senior Cassie Wolpern led the team with attacks as well as on defense. Nachreiner had 10 kills followed by Wolpern who had nine kills and eight digs.
"We were up at the beginning of each game but unfortunately couldn't finish it," Wolpern said. "But we definitely established our program as a future threat in the NCC."
MSU finished out the year with an overall record of 17-13, a very encouraging step up from last years record of 12-15. Not only is the Fall season of volleyball over, but so are the collegiate careers of two dominating seniors, Wolpern and Mandy Reuter. These two women have been key factors in crucial wins throughout the season and have left a definite imprint on Maverick volleyball.
"The season was a success and we have improved our record each year for the past three seasons and ended up with a bid to the playoffs," Wolpern said. "It's sad that it's all over now, but I couldn't be happier with my career at MSU. This is a great program and I am very happy to be considered an alumni now."
Emily Buss is a Reporter staff writer
