IUP Volleyball Triumphs Over California (PA) in a Four-Set Match
October 7, 2023 | Indiana, PA
Match Overview
The Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) women’s volleyball team showcased an impressive performance on Saturday night, overcoming California (PA) in four sets with scores of 20–25, 25–23, 25–18, and 25–10. This victory not only marked a significant achievement in the season but also bolstered their position in the conference standings.
Set Breakdown
Set One
California (PA) started strong, taking advantage of early errors from IUP to secure the first set 25–20.
Set Two
In a tightly contested second set, IUP rallied back, driven by crucial kills from Peyton Belcher and Delaney Concannon. With a pair of service aces from setter Ellie Rauch, IUP clinched the set 25–23, tying the match at one set each.
Sets Three and Four
The momentum shifted decisively in favor of IUP, as they dominated the next two sets. Belcher led the attack with 14 kills, complemented by Concannon’s 12 and Rylee Brown’s 11. Defensively, Brooke Kessler registered a team-high 16 digs while the IUP block was anchored by Brown, who recorded three blocks.
The fourth set saw IUP pull away rapidly with a striking 10–1 run, ultimately finishing the match with a commanding 25–10 score. Rauch’s serving was pivotal, as she accounted for four aces, contributing significantly to California’s struggles.
Key Player Contributions
- Ellie Rauch: 50 assists, 4 service aces
- Peyton Belcher: 14 kills
- Delaney Concannon: 12 kills
- Rylee Brown: 11 kills, 3 blocks
- Brooke Kessler: 16 digs
Looking Ahead
With this victory, IUP improves to a season record of 13–5 and steadily builds momentum as they approach the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) playoff scenario. Their next match is scheduled against Slippery Rock on October 17, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the KCAC.
