Grand Rapids, MI – It has been a long, hectic week on the Aquinas College campus (Homecoming & Presidential Inauguration), but for the women's volleyball team that included three WHAC battles in just five days. After grinding out a road trip to conference powerhouse Lawrence Tech midweek, the Saints returned home Sunday determined to finish the stretch strong. They did just that, cruising past Northwestern Ohio in straight sets.

Aquinas 3, UNOH 0 (25–15, 25–12, 25–13)

The Saints showcased balance and efficiency across the board, led by a powerful hitting display. Cece Pelak was unstoppable at the net, pounding down 13 kills at a .400 clip, while also adding a service ace, a block assist, and 15 digs for a complete all-around performance. Lauren Chioini and Nevaeh Bakker were equally sharp, each tallying nine kills with hitting percentages over .400, combining power with consistency in the attack.

Freshman setter Natalie West continued to impress as the team's offensive conductor, racking up 36 assists and keeping the Racers' defense off balance. West also chipped in two service aces and three block assists, showing poise and versatility beyond her years. Michelle Domey provided another offensive spark, hitting .467 with nine kills and chipping in six digs.

Defensively, Bella Hommes anchored the back row with a match-high 21 digs, while Chioini and Pelak each added 15 more. The Saints' backcourt energy was matched at the net, where Bakker and Chioini combined for five blocks, helping hold UNOH to a .000 team hitting percentage. Contributions also came from Jayla Martin and Mel Beachnau, who each added timely kills off the bench, underscoring the depth of the roster.

That depth was further highlighted by Kami Morse, Sarah Curtis, and Sophie Munch, who each played key supporting roles. Morse provided steady defense in the back row with five digs, Curtis added a service ace and a block to energize the squad, and Munch recorded a service ace to cap off a strong second set. Alongside Martin's three kills, the supporting cast gave the Saints a spark that helped keep the momentum rolling throughout the sweep.

Coach's Comment
Head Coach Ryan Campbell emphasized how valuable the sweep was after such a demanding week: "This was the type of match we needed — a three-set win where we could execute, get a lot of players valuable time, and keep building our rhythm. I'm really proud of the way the team stayed focused and showed improvement across all phases. The depth of this group is becoming a real strength."

Inside the Numbers
     • Pelak: 13 kills, .400 hitting, 15 digs
     • Chioini: 9 kills, .412 hitting, 15 digs, 3 blocks
     • Bakker: 9 kills, .400 hitting, 3 blocks
     • Domey: 9 kills, .467 hitting, 6 digs
     • West: 36 assists, 2 aces, 3 blocks

Up Next
The Saints, now 13-4 overall and 5-0 in WHAC play, hit the road for a weekend swing in Ohio. They'll face Defiance on Friday, September 26 at 7:00 PM before taking on Lourdes on Saturday, September 27 at 2:00 PM. Fans can follow all the action with live stats, recaps, and more at AQSaints.com.