The Fort Hays State volleyball team started slow but still managed a four-set victory over MIAA foe Missouri Western on Friday night (Oct. 14) at Gross Memorial Coliseum. The Tigers dropped the first set 25-17 before winning the next three 25-16, 25-22 and 25-17.

The Tigers were led by a monster effort from Jenna Ulrich, who put down 19 kills against two errors for a hitting percentage of .531. She also chipped in three blocks, including a crucial solo block late in the fourth set. Sara Hewson also had a strong match, with 14 kills and seven digs. Kylee Hoagland rounded out the trio of hitters with 11 kills.

Fort Hays State outhit the Griffons .175 to .123 and had 77 digs to their 71. Tracie Hileman led the defense with 26 kills, while Yadira Jacquez  added 13 in a relief effort. Kayls Zoglman had another double-double with 40 assists and 12 digs.

The win was crucial for the Tigers as they grabbed their second MIAA victory of the year and move to 13-9 on the season. The next week will be a tough one as the Tigers will face Washburn on Tuesday, Emporia State on Friday and Central Missouri on Saturday. Washburn is currently ranked No. 5 in the AVCA Top 25 while Central Missouri is No. 8. Emporia State has been ranked previously this season and they could possibly move back into rankings next week.

Missouri Western drops to 9-11 (2-5 MIAA) with the loss. The Griffons were led by Shelby Corkill who had a double-double of 14 kills and 12 assists and Alexandra Behnke who had 12 kills. Stephanie Hattey had 35 assists for Missouri Western and Sarah Faubel had a team-high 22 digs.

– FHSU Sports Information –