Northwest Wayne News

The Wayne State University women's volleyball team is preparing for a series of away games in Michigan's Upper Peninsula as the second half of the conference season begins. The Warriors, who currently hold a 14-4 overall record and are 6-2 in GLIAC play, will face Michigan Tech on Friday and Northern Michigan on Saturday.

Head coach Tim Koth commented on the upcoming matches: "The team is excited for this trip to the U.P. We are looking forward to the experience, getting the second half of conference play started and playing two really good teams. It should be a fun weekend."

Wayne State recently participated in the Midwest Region Crossover at Hammond Sportsplex in Indiana, where they won two out of three matches. The Warriors defeated Rockhurst in straight sets and overcame Hillsdale in four sets before falling to Missouri-St. Louis, which had been on an eight-match winning streak.

Two Wayne State players, Kayla Dulgar and Paige Giehtbrock, were named to the Midwest Region Crossover All-Tournament Team. Dulgar recorded 136 assists (12.4 per set), 11 kills with a .320 hitting percentage, 22 digs, and eight blocks over three matches. Giehtbrock contributed 45 kills on 113 attempts (.265 hitting percentage), four service aces, 22 digs, and four blocks during her appearances. This recognition marks their second All-Tournament Team honor of the season.

Michigan Tech enters Friday's match with a 7-11 overall record and has lost its last five contests under first-year head coach Cindy Pindral. Four Huskies have surpassed 100 kills this season: Jacqueline Yancy (175), Rachel Zurek (175), Madelyn Torola (107), and Paige Wagner (107). Setters Tess Hayes (383 assists) and Madelynn Kreider (238 assists) have directed their offense.

Northern Michigan holds an 8-11 overall record under ninth-year head coach Mike Lozier, who previously served as an assistant at Wayne State. After losing nine consecutive matches earlier this season, NMU rebounded by winning six straight games out of their last nine played. Five Wildcats have reached at least 100 kills: McKenzie Gruner (191), Madison York (139), Kaylie McIntosh (135), Kaysie Bakke (120), and Emilia Gulock (101). Junior setter Allie Barlow leads with 627 assists.

Both opponents present challenges as Wayne State aims to continue its strong performance into the latter part of conference play.