Volleyball sweeps IUPUI in last Chippewa Challenge match
After finishing 1-1 yesterday, the Central Michigan volleyball team wrapped up the Chippewa Challenge with a win over IUPUI in three sets.
The Chippewas improved to 7-2 on the season.
“I really liked our response to yesterday evening," said head coach Mike Gawlik. "I thought today we did some really good things in the first two sets to take those sets.”
Senior outside hitter Jordan Bueter set a program record with 23 kills in three sets.
“It’s just fun playing with my team. We have really good setters and passers,” Bueter said. “I think it’s the hustle of everyone out there that brought the energy for the team."
Bueter also contributed four digs and an ace on the day for the Chippewas. Gawlik described his leading outside hitter as a "five-tool player."
“She serves and passes and blocks for us," Gawlik said. "She had a couple of really good blocks for us today."
The Chippewas took the first set 25-23, but the Jaguars fought back in the second set and eventually fell to CMU 31-29.
“It’s a different mindset going into the locker room tied 1-1 or leading 2-0," Gawlik said. "I think it was really important for us to take the second set.”
The Chippewas started out strong in the third set and took an early 10-4 lead. CMU took the third set by a final of 25-18, with the match point coming off an ace by freshman Kalina Smith.
“Kalina came off the bench and had two aces for us," Gawlik said. "One being for match point and had six digs as well. She did a great job for us today.”
CMU finished the Chippewa Challenge 2-1.
“Overall I am pleased with the weekend. I thought we played pretty well and I think we scheduled teams that help us grow each week” Gawlik said. “Next week is going to be a big test for us."
The Chippewas return to action on Friday Sept. 15 at 4:30 p.m. against Southern Illinois in the Shamrock Invitational. Along with Southern Illinois, CMU will play Michigan State and Notre Dame on Saturday.
