Nov. 21, 2024, CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – The 12th ranked Grand Rapids Community College volleyball powered through a gritty 3-1 victory over Walters State Community College in their second match at the NJCAA Division II National Championship, fueled by stellar performances from their All-Region players and a relentless team effort. The match, played at the Alliant Energy PowerHouse in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, kept GRCC alive in the consolation bracket as they fought to extend their tournament run.

GRCC came out of the gates on fire, jumping to a commanding 6-0 lead in the first set and never looking back en route to a dominant 25-12 victory. The offense was nearly flawless with 17 kills, only two errors and hitting .469.

The second set saw GRCC's efficiency dip, as the team hit just .143 and struggled to find their rhythm. Walters State would even the match at 1-1 with a 25-20 win.

GRCC rebounded in the third set, regaining their focus and finishing strong with a decisive 7-2 run to close out a 25-19 victory. The late surge reestablished GRCC's momentum as they moved one set closer to the win. 

The fourth set was a thrilling back-and-forth battle, with Walters State taking a 15-12 lead midway through the set. Refusing to back down, GRCC responded with a stunning seven-point run to seize control and secure a 25-21 victory, clinching the match and sending GRCC to the next round. The comeback was a testament to GRCC's resilience and determination.

Stat Leaders

• Taylor Kik led the way offensively with 17 kills, a .310 hitting percentage, and 17 digs, making her a standout on both sides of the ball.
• Lizzie MacIntosh delivered 14 kills, a team-high 19 digs, and consistent leadership throughout the match.
• Lillian Peterson was a force at the net with 12 kills and a season-high nine blocks, anchoring GRCC's defense.
• Sophia Ritsema added five kills and two blocks, while Ava Schultz contributed five kills, six digs, and two blocks.
• Joslynne Bogner chipped in with five kills and two blocks, providing valuable depth.
• Jersey VanderWall recorded three of the team's seven aces, keeping Walters State off balance with her serve.
• Cece Huizingh, the team's libero, tallied 13 digs, anchoring GRCC's back row.
• Setters Ava Tarsi and Sami Baker combined for 46 assists, three aces, and 15 digs, orchestrating the offense with precision.

The 3-1 victory sends GRCC forward in the consolation bracket, where they await their next opponent. With every player contributing and the team clicking on both offense and defense, GRCC continues to show the determination and skill needed to make a deep run in the tournament. Their resilience in this match highlights the heart and teamwork that defines their season.  The Raiders will take on either Kirkwood or Gulf Coast College in an elimination match at 2 pm EST on Friday.

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Interested in supporting GRCC Athletics?  All donations can be done through GRCC Athletic's Scholarship Fund and can specify what scholarship fund the gift is going to, such as the Hofmann scholarship. If you have any questions on how to support Athletics at Grand Rapids Community College, contact the Athletic Department via phone at (616) 234-3883 or email grccathletics@grcc.edu. Any support is appreciated and goes towards assisting our student-athlete scholarship funds.