The College of Saint Benedict volleyball team (21-5 overall, 7-1 MIAC) defeated St. Olaf College 3-0 this evening to shift into first place in the MIAC.

Although the score doesn't score it, each of the three sets was a battle between the two teams.  The Blazers jumped to a quick 10-4 lead over the Oles in the first set.  St. Olaf started to close the gap at 14-10, but five kills from AVCA Division III Player of the Week Kayli Schumacher (East Grand Forks, MN, Sacred Heart) gave CSB the edge it needed, winning 25-17.

The Oles controlled the pace of the second set, jumping to a 10-4 lead and eventually sliding ahead 20-11.  With a 21-14 St. Olaf lead, things looked rough for CSB, but that Blazers' momentum soon kicked in as they picked up a 7-0 run to tie the score at 21.  Four kills later, CSB won 25-23.

The Blazers maintained their pace throughout the final set, grabbing a 15-10 lead before clinching the win 25-17.

Six Blazers had kills tonight, led by sophomore outside hitter Chelsie Sobieck (Wyoming, MN, Forrest Lake) who had nine and Schumacher, who contributed eight kills, five blocks and a.462 hitting percentage.  Senior outside hitter Emma Jaynes (Hibbing, MN, Hibbing) added seven kills and 10 digs.  Senior setter Beth Hanson (Faribault, MN, Bethlehem Academy) had 30 assists for CSB.

CSB hosts Gustavus tomorrow, Sat., Oct. 24 at 3 p.m. in Claire Lynch Hall.

Box Score