Eagles Capture Region 11-B Title, Advance to District Championship in Wahpeton
Cedar Rapids, IA- The #2-ranked Kirkwood Eagles Volleyball Team proved once again why they're among the nation's elite, claiming the Region 11-B Championship with a decisive 3-1 victory over the DMACC Bears on Wednesday night. The win secures Kirkwood's spot in the District Championship against NDSCS in Wahpeton, North Dakota, where the Eagles will compete for an automatic berth to the NJCAA DII National Tournament, set to be hosted in Cedar Rapids.
Dominant Team Effort
The Eagles' offense was firing on all cylinders, finishing with a .259 hitting percentage and spreading the production across multiple attackers. Sophomore Carly Wazac powered the offense with a team-high 15 kills on an outstanding .481 efficiency, while Kaci Johnson orchestrated the attack brilliantly with 24 assists, adding 13 kills of her own and 15 total points in a standout all-around performance.
Freshman outside hitter Marissa Cahoy continued her consistent form, tallying 11 kills and contributing on both sides of the net with strong back-row defense. Josie Bryan made an impact in limited sets, hitting an impressive .538 with 7 kills on 13 swings, while middle blockers Chloe Baez and Madalyn Boyer added crucial net presence, combining for 5 blocks and 9 kills.
Defensive Poise and Serving Strength
On defense, Libero Natalee Hartman anchored the backcourt with 20 digs and a steady passing effort that kept the offense in rhythm. Gabbi Smith and Abbie Staats also provided key defensive minutes, chipping in with a combined 43 digs. The Eagles also recorded 5 service aces, led by Hartman and Smith, who each landed two.
Kirkwood's blocking game made the difference at the net, totaling 7 team blocks, including several key stops late in the third set that swung the momentum firmly in their favor.
Set-by-Set Summary
-
Set 1: Kirkwood came out strong with a 25–14 win, asserting control early behind efficient hitting and strong serving.
-
Set 2: DMACC responded with a tight 27–25 set win, forcing the Eagles to recalibrate.
-
Set 3: Kirkwood bounced back emphatically, hitting .536 as they dominated 25–17.
-
Set 4: The Eagles closed the match in style, pulling away late to take the final set 25–15 and the Region 11-B crown.
Next Up
With the Region 11-B title secured, the Eagles improve to 29-1 overall and now head north to Wahpeton, North Dakota, to face NDSCS in the District Championship Match.
