10/27/24 Fulton, MO - Westminster's volleyball team celebrated Senior Day with two back-to-back conference wins, defeating both Spalding and Webster on their home court. The team also honored its four seniors: Kirsten Schrader, Madisyn Ellis, Celissa Kennedy, and Braylee Montgomery, who were recognized for their contributions to the program.
In the first match of the day, Westminster edged out Spalding in a competitive five-set showdown. After a close loss in the first set (25-27), the Blue Jays rebounded with strong play, taking the next two sets, 25-20 and 26-24. Spalding fought back to win the fourth set, but Westminster clinched the match with a decisive 15-8 victory in the fifth. Meghan Nolte had a standout performance, leading the team with 22 kills on a .409 hitting percentage, along with 9 blocks for a remarkable 27.5 points. Kylie Hasselbacher followed with 16 kills, 6 blocks, and 19 points. Paige Rowland added to the offensive effort with 7 kills, while Madisyn Ellis and Katelynn Jackson each contributed 9 kills, helping Westminster outlast Spalding in a close-fought match.
Westminster carried the momentum into their second match against Webster, sweeping the Gorloks in straight sets (25-21, 25-13, 25-10). Strong serving and sharp offense helped the Blue Jays dominate the match. Ellis led the team with 10 kills, supported by Nolte with 9 kills on an impressive .692 hitting percentage. Defensive contributions from Schrader, who collected 16 digs, and Liv Hart with 20 assists, kept the Blue Jays in control throughout the match.
The wins mark an exciting Senior Day celebration, as Westminster improved their conference record to 11-3.