McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University women's volleyball team secured a significant victory against Augustana College on Wednesday night, Oct. 23, clinching at least a share of the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) Regular Season Championship. This marks the sixth CCIW title in the program's history and their first since 2021. The win also guarantees the Titans the No. 1 seed and hosting rights for next month's conference tournament.

With this victory, Illinois Wesleyan improved its record to 16-6 overall and maintained an undefeated 7-0 record in CCIW play. Augustana's record fell to 8-16 overall and 1-4 in the conference.

Senior Abby Erdman and fifth-year Jordan Pierce led the Titans with double-double performances. Erdman contributed 22 assists and 13 digs, while Pierce added a team-high of 24 assists along with 12 digs. Junior Taylor French was instrumental in pacing the offense with her contribution of 22 kills.

In addition to Erdman and Pierce, junior Kannyn Boyd and freshman Alex Bardouniotis each recorded double-digit digs, tying for the team lead with 16 apiece. Sophomore Eleanor Palmer stood out defensively with a team-high four blocks.

Illinois Wesleyan started strong by scoring the first three points but faced resistance as Augustana took an early lead at one point during the match. However, key plays from players like Morgan Harrington helped keep IWU competitive throughout.

After losing the opening set to Augustana, Illinois Wesleyan responded decisively in subsequent sets, particularly excelling in set two where they achieved a .400 hitting percentage while holding their opponents to .000.

Despite dropping set four to force a decisive fifth set, IWU regained momentum quickly with contributions from players such as freshman Izzie Niepagen who sparked a crucial run that helped secure their victory.

Looking ahead, Illinois Wesleyan will host the Illinois Wesleyan Classic II at Shirk Center starting Friday, Oct. 25.