WINFIELD, Kan. — Southwestern College volleyball returns home this week looking to build on recent progress when it hosts Friends University in a Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference matchup Wednesday evening at Stewart Field House.
The Moundbuilders (9-17, 2-9 KCAC) have shown steady improvement this season, with a young roster learning to compete through one of the toughest schedules in the conference. Southwestern's attack is anchored by opposite hitter Autumn Bennett and outside hitter Mikki Johnson, who have combined for more than 400 kills this year. Johnson leads the team with 216 kills, averaging 2.67 per set, while Bennett adds 214 at a 2.61 clip. The pair has provided consistent offensive production, giving the Builders balance from both sides of the net.
Junior middle blocker Macey Collier has been a force at the net, leading the team with a .325 hitting percentage and 38 total blocks. Her efficiency and quick connection with setter Natalie Blaufuss have helped keep Southwestern competitive in extended rallies. Blaufuss has directed the offense with 410 assists this season, while fellow setter Reece Likes adds 342, giving the Builders flexibility in their two-setter rotation.
On the defensive side, libero Avery Riedel continues to shine in the back row. She leads Southwestern with 320 digs, averaging 3.60 per set, and has been one of the team's most reliable passers in serve receive. Defensive specialists Kalissa Ortega and Riley Valley add depth and hustle to a unit that averages nearly 14 digs per set.
At the net, freshman middle Haleigh Weber has chipped in 48 total blocks and 41 kills, while outside hitter Ashlyn Tag contributes 182 kills and solid front-row defense. The Builders' blocking corps has grown in consistency, producing more than four blocks per match this year.
Southwestern's serving has also been a strength, averaging 1.9 aces per set. Blaufuss and Likes lead the service line with a steady mix of placement and pace, helping the Builders pressure opposing serve receptions.
Friends University (18-11, 3-8 KCAC) enters the matchup with one of the conference's more balanced lineups. The Falcons are led by outside hitters Natalie Castillo and Gabbie Taylor, who each average more than two and a half kills per set. Setter Randi Reid has distributed 578 assists, guiding a Falcons offense that hits .171 as a team.
For Southwestern, the key will be maintaining offensive rhythm and minimizing unforced errors. The Moundbuilders have found success when establishing their middle attack early and controlling tempo through disciplined defense and consistent serving.
First serve is set for 7 p.m. Wednesday inside Stewart Field House in Winfield. The Moundbuilders will look to defend home court and gain momentum heading into the final stretch of KCAC play.
