NIACC splits pair of matches at own tournament

MASON CITY - The NIACC volleyball team split a pair of matches Friday at its own tournament as the Trojans celebrated 50 years of volleyball at the school.

NIACC swept Iowa Lakes 3-0. The Trojans won 25-18-25-7, 25-13.

Western Iowa Tech topped NIACC 3-2. The Comets won 7-25, 23-25, 25-22, 25-17, 15-9.

"We are very proud of the team effort (Friday)," NIACC coach Chris Brandt said. "They were playing with great energy, but also the tenacity that we often get to see only in practices.

"Offensively, we had our best day on record so far this season. We need to build on that success."

Kelly Miller led the Trojans with 22 kills, nine digs and one block. Jaida Hansen had 20 kills, six blocks and four digs.

NIACC's Abbie Hyde had 18 digs, two ace serves and two assists, Kennedy Schwiesow had 37 digs and five assists, Alicia Machacek had 12 kills, three digs and two blocks and Ellie Hanna had four kills, three blocks and three digs.

The Trojans' Iwalani Beltran had 42 assists, 10 ace serves, 13 digs and two kills, Kit Byars had eight kills, seven blocks, six digs and two ace serves, Zhane Singer had two kills and two digs and Alyssa Wickersheim had 10 kills, 31 digs and two blocks.

Friday night was also a NIACC volleyball alumni reunion where the school recognized 50 years of NIACC volleyball, which began in 1973.

"Additionally, we would like to thank everyone who helped us celebrate the 50th anniversary of NIACc volleyball," Brandt said. "What an amazing opportunity we have to continue a strong legacy of building Trojans for life and we are proud to be part of the journey."

NIACC (10-16 overall) returns to action Saturday at the NIACC tournament. The Trojans face Central Lakes College at 9 a.m. and takes on Ellsworth at 3 p.m.