By Nick Hoven, UWEC Sports Information
Newport News, VA (Blugolds.com) – The No. 4-ranked University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire volleyball team wrapped up their time in Virginia as part of the Christopher Newport University Captain's Classic on Saturday, falling to No. 3-ranked Juniata College.
With both teams playing the previous day, it was Eau Claire starting hot with two victories that included defeating the No. 22-ranked host school, Christopher Newport. The Eagles' only game was a defeat in five sets by Christopher Newport. Both ranked teams looked to steal a win on a neutral court and a chance to climb the AVCA (American Volleyball Coaches Association) poll.
Despite very close rallies throughout the match, the Blugolds would fall at the hands of the Eagles in three sets. In the match, the Blugolds would record 30 of their 52 points off their aggressive attacks, led by Mackenzie Bachmann's (Jr. – Chaska, MN) six kills while three other Blugolds chipped in five each. Leah Witzel (Jr. – Woodbury, MN/East Ridge) dished out 16 assists while Abbey Pederson (So. – Canby MN) added 11 and Taylor Scalia (Jr. – Lake Elmo, MN/Stillwater) led the team with 13 digs.
For their efforts over the weekend, Bachmann and Scalia were named to the All-Tournament Team.
Bachmann recorded 26 kills and 40 digs in 10 sets while Scalia tallied 56 digs in 10 sets.
The Blugolds (2-1) will host their home opener September 4th at 7 p.m. as they face No. 25 Saint Benedict (MN). After the single non-conference matchup, Eau Claire will travel to Augsburg University (MN) for a three-match tournament scheduled for September 6-7.
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