McLean County Times

Illinois Wesleyan University's men's volleyball team began their 2025 season with a victory over Concordia University Wisconsin. The match, held at the Shirk Center on January 16, marked the first time in program history that IWU opened its season at home. The Titans won in four sets, continuing their streak of winning season openers for the third consecutive year.

Senior Ryan Myers led the team's offense with 14 kills and a .458 attack percentage. Freshman Ethan Kuziela made a strong debut with 13 kills, while sophomore Patrick Dasbach achieved a career-best of 10 kills. Kuziela also led the team with two aces.

The offensive efforts were supported by senior Vince DiCosola and sophomore Brenden Reutter, who contributed significantly to the team's .259 attack percentage. DiCosola matched the game-high with 20 assists, and Reutter added 13 assists.

Defensively, Dasbach recorded five digs, sharing the team lead with Myers and junior Jace Milka. Senior Jake Kougan set a personal record with seven blocks, making it one of the highest block counts in program history for a four-set match. Freshman Gavin Rohlwing also impressed with nine kills and four blocks.

Overall, IWU registered 51 kills compared to CUW's 42 and had an advantage in assists (46-39), aces (7-3), and blocks (13-7). The Titans' total of 13 blocks tied for second-most in program history for a single match.

In gameplay highlights, IWU took an early lead after Reutter assisted Myers for the first point. As they faced challenges throughout the sets, strategic plays from players like DiCosola and timely interventions from head coach Brandon Mueller helped secure their win.

Illinois Wesleyan will continue their season at home by hosting a triangular tournament on January 18 against University of Olivet and Lakeland University at the Shirk Center.