MENOMONIE, Wis. — Hamline (7-10, 2-4 MIAC) fell to the University of Wisconsin-Stout (15-7, 1-3 WIAC) in four sets at Johnson Fieldhouse on Tuesday night, with scores of 18-25, 26-24, 16-25, 18-25. The Pipers' second-set win featured 14 kills and a .367 hitting percentage.


Hamline opened the first set with a strong 6-2 run, highlighted by two service aces from Campbell Sims and a block from Grace Bathurst and Nora Cairns. However, the Blue Devils regrouped, capitalizing on Hamline's attack errors and closing with a decisive 12-1 stretch. Despite 17 kills from Hamline, Wisconsin-Stout's decisive rally led to a 25-18 set win.


The Pipers rallied from a five-point deficit to edge Wisconsin-Stout 26-24 in a tightly contested second set. Key to the comeback was a 6-0 run that included a service ace and multiple attack errors by Wisconsin-Stout, leveling the score at 5-5. Bathurst's pivotal kills and service ace contributed to Hamline maintaining a narrow lead, while Cairns and Sophia Johnson added crucial points to secure the set victory.


Wisconsin-Stout capitalized on Hamline's errors to secure a 25-16 win in the third set. Hamline struggled with attack errors while Wisconsin-Stout's efficient play was highlighted by Brooke McCune's three kills. Despite Hamline's efforts, including a late kill from Sims, the set concluded with a service ace from the Blue Devils.


Hamline struggled to maintain momentum in the fourth set, as Wisconsin-Stout pulled ahead. Despite early kills from Bathurst and Quincy Asmus, Hamline's attack faltered, allowing Wisconsin-Stout to extend their lead. The Blue Devils' service aces and consistent blocking efforts contributed to their decisive 25-18 set win, closing the match.


Bathurst led the charge for Hamline, recording 11 kills and contributing four block assists, accumulating a total of 14 points. Cameryn Sand facilitated the offense with 19 assists while adding a service ace and five digs. Kaitlyn Kotek supported the team's playmaking with 15 assists and collected five digs. Lexi Helmin was efficient in her role, achieving a .636 hitting percentage with seven kills on 11 attempts, along with two total blocks.


The Pipers continue their busy week back at home on Friday, October 24th against Bethel in Hutton Arena at 7 PM!