Grand Rapids, Mich. — It is mentioned time and again, in the always-competitive WHAC conference, you can NEVER look past any opponent. Cliché, yes, but very true. Coach Ryan Campbell prepared his team and reminded them that overlooking any opponent could cost the Saints a conference championship and perhaps a chance at nationals. Fortunately for the AQ faithful, the Saints played sharp volleyball and cruised past UM-Dearborn in straight sets.

AQ 3, UM-Dearborn 0 (25–10, 25–15, 25–15)

From the start, Aquinas' depth was on full display, as nearly the entire roster contributed in the sweep. Tess Griffith led the way with six kills on a blistering .667 hitting percentage, while Lauren Chioini was equally efficient with five kills at an .833 clip. Michelle Domey and Megan VanBeek each added four kills, and Jayla Martin provided four more along with three blocks. Freshman standout Natalie West came in to tally two kills on a perfect 1.000 hitting line while also handing out nine assists and three service aces.

Taylor Reha was a force at setter, notching 21 assists, four aces, and three digs, while Bella Hommes anchored the back row with a team-high 14 digs and two service aces. Angelia Cutts, Jeralyn Hoppes, Kate Schneider, Sophie Munch, Jenna Lee, and Nevaeh Bakker all chipped in two kills apiece, with Hoppes hitting a perfect 1.000 and Bakker swinging at a strong .400 efficiency. Audrey Gil and Mel Beachnau each registered a kill, while Cece Pelak added an assist.

Defensively, the Saints spread the workload. Jayla Martin and Nevaeh Bakker both contributed on the block, while Kami Morse recorded two aces and a dig. Chloe Hogarth and Sarah Curtis added digs, and Michelle Domey, Angelia Cutts, and Jeralyn Hoppes were active on block touches. Even the libero rotation gave reps to Julia Schweihofer and Ki'i Rilveria, who combined for five digs. In all, 20 Saints recorded at least one stat, showcasing the program's remarkable balance and depth.

By the Numbers

• 42 kills on .344 hitting as a team
• 21 assists, four aces from setter Taylor Reha
• 14 digs for libero Bella Hommes
• 11 service aces overall, spread across six players
• 20 Saints with at least one statistical contribution

Coach's Comments

Head Coach Ryan Campbell praised the team's ability to combine solid execution with the rare chance to showcase nearly the entire roster:
"Tonight was one of those matches where we were able to trust our depth and still maintain a high level of execution. I'm proud of how everyone came in ready to compete, and matches like this show the strength of our program from top to bottom."

Up Next

The Saints (17-4, 9-0 WHAC) will stay home for a Saturday matinee against Madonna at 2:00 PM. Aquinas then turns around for an unusual weekday doubleheader on Wednesday, first welcoming Kuyper College at 4:00 PM before squaring off in a key WHAC battle with Siena Heights at 7:00 PM. Both matches will be streamed live on the AQ Sports Network with Joey Sutherlin on the call. For more information, scores, and updates, visit aqsaints.com.

Correction from Wednesday

In Wednesday's 90's Night article, it was mistakenly stated that Athletic Director Damon Bouwkamp missed the ceremonial first serve. While that was true, it was omitted that he nailed the second attempt with pinpoint accuracy for an ace. According to Coach Campbell, if you are at least even in service errors and aces, you are doing great. With apologies to Mr. Bouwkamp for soiling his reputation as a server — though Coach Campbell remains hesitant to promote the AD to the coaching staff just yet.

It's a great day to be a Saint!!!