Grand Rapids, Mich. — The marathon known as the conference season is entering its final furlong, and the Aquinas College women's volleyball team continues to set the pace. The Saints hold a comfortable lead atop the WHAC standings, but this group is not satisfied with just a conference banner — their eyes are fixed on a bigger prize. Head Coach Ryan Campbell refuses to let his team overlook any opponent, while also finding ways to give the entire roster valuable experience and quality minutes. That mindset was on full display Friday night inside the Sturrus Sports & Fitness Center, as the Saints turned in another dominant performance against the Grey Wolves of Lourdes.

Aquinas 3, Lourdes 0 (25–9, 25–11, 25–20)

The victory pushes AQ's record to 24–5 overall and a perfect 15–0 in conference play, while extending their home winning streak in convincing fashion. Aquinas' balanced attack was on full display as Lauren Chioini and Cece Pelak led the way with nine kills each. Chioini was especially efficient, hitting .667 with nine kills on 12 swings, while Pelak added two service aces and 11 total points. Jeralyn Hoppes contributed seven kills and steady defense, while middle hitter Nevaeh Bakker was nearly flawless, recording five kills with a .417 attack percentage and two solo blocks.

Freshman setter Natalie West continued her stellar rookie campaign with 24 assists, seven digs, and a perfect hitting line on two attacks, while libero Bella Hommes anchored the back row with 10 digs. Kate Schneider added four kills and four block assists, giving AQ a strong presence at the net alongside Bakker. The Saints' serving pressure kept Lourdes off balance throughout, as West and Pelak each delivered two aces, and Ki'i Rilveria chipped in one of her own to help sustain momentum.

After two decisive sets, Lourdes battled harder in the third, forcing longer rallies and testing AQ's composure. But the Saints' depth and poise proved too much, as they closed out the match behind clutch play from Chioini and steady setting from West to complete another clean sweep on Coach Bo Court.

By the Numbers
     • .347 – Team hitting percentage for the Saints, compared to Lourdes' -.022.
     • 9 – Kills each from Lauren Chioini and Cece Pelak, leading all players.
     • 24 – Assists dished out by freshman setter Natalie West.
     • 6 – Team service aces, including two each from West and Pelak.

Coach's Comments
Head Coach Ryan Campbell spoke about the balance his team is finding between resting key players and providing depth opportunities as the postseason approaches:
"This time of year, every rep matters. We're fortunate to have a roster that can step in and perform at a high level no matter who's on the court. The goal is to stay sharp, stay healthy, and keep pushing toward the level we'll need for both the WHAC and NAIA tournaments."

Up Next
Coach Ryan Campbell and his squad will get a brief catnap and return to Coach Bo Court to challenge WHAC foe Defiance. The Saints (24–5, 15–0 WHAC) will host the Yellow Jackets at 2:00 PM, which will also serve as Senior Day for the AQ squad. The match will be streamed live on the AQ Sports Network (unfortunately, without play-by-play). For more information, scores, and updates, visit aqsaints.com.