Volleyball Team Hosts Alumni Match

Photo by: Dave Eggen/Inertia Sports Media

8/17/2016 9:15:00 AM | Women's Volleyball

With less than a week before its season opener, the South Dakota State volleyball team will see some new competition when it hosts the 2016 Alumni Match Saturday at 6 p.m. in the friendly confines of Frost Arena.

Admission is free and provides an opportunity for the Jackrabbit faithful to see the team before its opens the 51st season in the Green Bay Tournament in Green Bay, Wis., Aug. 26-27.

SDSU alumni taking the court for the Jackrabbits include Emily (Rooney) Bohmback, 2005-07; Mackenzie (Osadchuk) Decker, 2006-07; Rachel Dahl, 2006-08; and Kelli Fiegan, 2008; 2010-12; Carley Gerving, 2014-15; Kacey Herrmann, 2013-15; Wagner Larson, 2012-15; Amy (Anderson) Nelson, 2004-07; Alanna Pengilly, 2012-15; and Arika Sanders, 1994-97.

Here are five things to watch for in the alumni match:

1. The Jackrabbits' attack in the middle will be from freshmen. Ashlynn Smith, Alexandra Morrison and Fiona Harding are all rookies, but have combined for 1,200 kills between the three during their high school careers.

2.SDSU's depth will be on the outside with seniors Mikala Hora, Nazya Thies and Ashley Beaner. The trio led the team last season in kills, kills per set and hitting percentage.

Sophomore transfer Sierra Peterson and freshmen Makenzie Hennen and Emilia Czapiewska will add depth and push the starting three.

3. For the first time in four years the Jackrabbits will have a new libero. Junior Ellie Benson saw extended time last season, averaging 2.19 digs per set and led the team with 22 service aces.

4. Summit League All-Freshman Team member Mattison Munger is back to run the offense for the Jackrabbits. The sophomore started 28 of 29 matches and was honored on The Summit League All-Freshmen Team. She averaged 7.63 assists per set and was second on the team with 20 service aces.

5. Just like last season, serving will be an emphasis again in 2016. The Jackrabbits improved to sixth in league matches in 2015, and the team is continues to work its jump serve to use as an offensive weapon.

For more information on South Dakota State volleyball team, follow the Jackrabbits on Twitter (@GoJacksVB) or like South Dakota State Volleyball on Facebook.

-GoJacks.com-