Written by Student Assistant Vanna Tangonan

TACOMA, Wash. – The Pacific Lutheran University Volleyball team extended its win streak to four on Saturday evening, opening its final homestand at Olson Gymnasium with a 3-1 (25-17, 25-11, 17-25, 25-16) victory over Northwest Conference rival George Fox University.

Pacific Lutheran (11-9, 9-3 NWC) started off hot, grabbing a 6-1 lead and leading wire-to-wire, besting the Bruins 25-17 in the first set. 

George Fox (3-16, 1-10 NWC) led early in the second set before six consecutive points put the Lutes up 9-3. PLU never trailed the rest of the set, beating GFU 25-11. The Lutes utilized a non-traditional lineup in the third, giving several players an opportunity to see action. The Bruins capitalized with an early 10-point lead. The Lutes attempted a late rally, collecting six straight points before ultimately coming up short 25-17 in the third. 

The Lutes closed out the match in the fourth, taking a quick 6-1 lead. George Fox gained momentum and tied it up at 11 but the Lutes scored eight of the next nine en route to the 25-16 win to secure the match.

"Overall the game was really good. We came in with a good mindset and we never doubted each other. I feel more comfortable with the team and playing with them is great."  said McKenna Ventura

All 19 Lutes saw the floor on Saturday, with Ventura leading the way offensively with nine kills. Danielle Skibiel, Chloe Epker, and Isabella Zubrod all added seven. Madi Collier had 23 assists while Kiana Calles added 19 while defensively, Caylie Shiramizu led the way with 19 digs.

"It was another great showing by our team," said Head Coach Kevin Aoki. 

"It was great to see some of the other players get a chance to play. They work hard every day in practice and this was a fun and good learning experience for them."

Lutes take on Whitman University on Friday, October 28 at 7 p.m. inside Olson Gymnasium.