McLean County Times

Junior Aida Shadewald recorded 15 kills, while freshman Khenedi Guest added nine, leading the Illinois State volleyball team in a competitive four-set match against Central Michigan in the 2024 season opener on Friday night.

Guest maintained a .304 hitting percentage, and graduate student Maggie McCrary led with a .467 clip (eight kills, one error on 15 attacks). The Redbirds (0-1) trailed after two sets but secured a win in the third set with a score of 27-25. Freshman Olivia Baierl contributed significantly with a match-high 20 digs.

Set scores were as follows: Illinois State fell to Central Michigan (1-3) with scores of 15-25, 20-25, 27-25, and 21-25.

Key statistics for Illinois State included:

- Kills: Aida Shadewald (15)

- Digs: Olivia Baierl (20)

- Assists: Mekaila Aupiu (39)

- Service Aces: Sammi Bunch (1)

- Total Blocks: Khenedi Guest (4)

Notable points from Illinois State's performance:

- The team had an overall hitting percentage of .229 compared to Central Michigan’s .281.

- Several players made their Redbird debuts including Guest, McCrary, Baierl, Aupiu, junior Colleen Hege, and freshman Ruth Ziegler.

- This match marked ISU's first home season opener since 2009.

For updates on Illinois State volleyball, visit GoRedbirds.com and follow the team on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Additional resources such as tickets and merchandise are available through GoRedbirds.com and the Illinois State Redbirds App.