McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University men's volleyball team faced a challenging match against Carthage College, ranked sixth, on March 29, in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The match took place at Tarble Arena as part of the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin. Illinois Wesleyan University (IWU), with a 12-10 overall and 2-6 conference record, pushed Carthage (18-3, 7-1 CCIW) to five sets for the first time in their series history but eventually lost in five sets, with scores of 21-25, 25-15, 25-16, 22-25, and 15-6.

Senior Bryce Williams from Chicago led the match with 20 kills, coming close to his personal best. Junior Jace Milka and freshman Ethan Kuziela contributed with nine kills each. The Titans' offense was managed by sophomore Brenden Reutter and senior Vince DiCosola, who recorded 21 and 17 assists, respectively.

Williams also recorded 16 digs, achieving his fourth double-double of the season. Reutter added 16 digs to his performance, marking his fourth match with double-digit kills in his sophomore year. DiCosola and freshman Ben Zima each contributed eight digs. Milka, senior Jake Kougan, and freshman Wilson Spaulding each registered three blocks.

Despite holding an advantage in kills, 52 to Carthage's 48, IWU struggled with a .110 attack percentage compared to Carthage's .207. The Titans had more assists and blocks but were outperformed by Carthage in aces and total blocks.

During the sets, IWU showcased resilience. After falling behind in the opening set 5-2, the Titans responded strongly, eventually winning the set 25-21. However, after losing the following two sets, IWU fought back in the fourth to win 25-22, pushing the match to a decisive fifth set. Unfortunately, they could not maintain momentum and lost 15-6.

This match signifies the first time in ten encounters that Illinois Wesleyan University has won two sets against Carthage.

IWU is scheduled to play its next match at Loras College on April 2, a rescheduled contest from March 5, at the Lillis Athletic & Wellness Center.