SAINT PAUL, Minn. — St. Olaf College (14-6, 4-0 MIAC) defeated the Hamline University volleyball team (7-7, 2-2 MIAC) in straight sets, 25-21, 25-21, 25-11, at Hutton Arena on Wednesday night. 


St. Olaf opened the first set with a strong service game, capitalizing on the Pipers' early attack errors to gain a 4-1 lead. Hamline responded with a 6-0 run, highlighted by Grace Bathurst's effective blocking and three kills, to pull ahead 11-8. However, St. Olaf regained control late with a 7-1 run fueled by two service aces from Ryan Morgan, clinching the set 25-21.


St. Olaf secured the second set 25-21 against Hamline by capitalizing on a mid-set surge. Hamline's efforts were supported by Cameryn Sand, who contributed numerous assists, setting up Sophia Johnson for key kills. 


St. Olaf dominated the third set with a strong offensive performance, highlighted by a 7-0 opening run that included three kills from Mehsa Krause and two from Lilah Van Scoyoc. The Pipers struggled to find momentum, only managing three service aces. St. Olaf's efficient play was further emphasized as they secured six service aces in the set, closing it 25-11.


Grace Bathurst led Hamline with a strong performance, recording seven kills with a .412 hitting percentage and contributing three solo blocks and one block assist for a total of 10.5 points. Sand facilitated the offense with 23 assists over three sets, adding four digs to her performance. Johnson finished with nine kills and a .214 hitting percentage, while also contributing one block assist and one dig. Claire Kaups contributed seven kills with a .238 hitting percentage and added seven digs to bolster the team's defensive effort.


The Pipers finish out their week with a roadtrip to Winona, Minn. where they take on Saint Mary's on Friday, October 10 at 7 PM.