Volleyball prepares for MAC road tests at Ball State, Toledo
Volleyball is preparing to go on the road this weekend to face two Mid-American Conference opponents in the MAC West – Ball State and Toledo.
Having already played the pair of opponents to begin the conference schedule, Chippewas head coach Erik Olson has seen improvements to his team’s overall performance, especially when comparing them to earlier in the season.“Our blocking came a really long way, and I think getting blockers to hold their position well has been important,” Olson said. “Our defense has been continuing to get better and better when Kelly (Maxwell) can manage her situation.”
A senior setter, Maxwell has been battling injuries for the past few weeks. She played in both of her team’s matches last weekend and is resting in preparation for this weekend.
“Coach has given me opportunities to get better in the training room to heal up,” Maxwell said.
With the season quickly nearing its end, the Chippewas are going to need Maxwell if they want to continue on with their winning ways. During this time of year, matches have traditionally been more intense and competitive.
“Toward the end it’s always a battle,” Maxwell said. “There are a few teams that will stand out at first and second place and a few teams that fall to the bottom.”
Including this weekend’s matches, the Chippewas have just six more regular season matches remaining on their schedule, with the quarterfinals of the MAC tournament starting on Nov. 22.
“It’s kind of a race for the middle of the pack, and I think we’re just trying to prove that we have what it takes to make a run in this and do some big things,” Maxwell said.
The last time the Chippewas played these two teams, they swept Toledo, only to get swept by Ball State the following evening. This time, the Chippewas will be on the road, and CMU would like to do what Olson has been preaching to his team all season and impose their will.
The action starts at 7 p.m. Friday at Ball State and at 3 p.m. Saturday at Toledo.
