HAMMOND, Ind. — The Parkside Rangers wrapped up play at the Midwest Region Crossover Tournament with a commanding straight-set victory over Truman State on Saturday morning. The Rangers (12-6, 3-5 GLIAC) controlled the match from start to finish, defeating the Bulldogs (8-13, 3-3 GLVC) by scores of 25-15, 25-23, and 25-13 inside the Hammond Sportsplex.
Parkside set the tone in the opening frame, jumping out to an early lead behind a balanced offensive attack and strong serving. The Rangers hit an impressive .407 in the set, with
Sam Fisch leading the way by hitting 1.000 with five kills on five swings. Truman State struggled to find rhythm offensively, committing eight attack errors.
Natalie Harris added two service aces during the set, helping Parkside build separation. The Rangers' defense, anchored by Harris and
Mariena Coon, kept the Bulldogs in check as Parkside closed out the first set comfortably, 25-15.
The second set was much tighter as Truman State found their footing, trading points with the Rangers throughout. The Bulldogs hit .268 in the frame—by far their best of the match—but Parkside responded with steady execution on both sides of the ball. Setters
Lucy Russ and
Lily Ray spread out the offense effectively, combining for 15 assists in the frame to keep Truman's defense guessing. Parkside also posted a 70% sideout percentage, their highest of the match, which proved crucial in holding off the Bulldogs' late push. The Rangers' consistency and poise in key moments secured the 25-23 win and a 2–0 lead in the match.
The Rangers left no doubt in the third, firing on all cylinders to seal the sweep. Parkside returned to its first-set form, hitting .407 while holding Truman State to just .029. Service aces from
Lily Ray and
Lucy Russ helped the Rangers pull away midway through the set, extending their lead and keeping the Bulldogs on their heels. The Rangers' front line dominated at the net and the defense stayed strong in serve receive, allowing them to finish off the Bulldogs decisively, 25-13.
Parkside's offense was efficient and balanced, finishing with a .337 hitting percentage as a team.
Sam Fisch led all players with 14 kills on a career-high .571 hitting and added three blocks for a team-high 15.5 points.
Ava Irvin added eight kills on .400 hitting, while
Maia Olson was flawless with seven kills on seven swings.
Lucy Russ guided the offense with 21 assists and added 10 digs for her 12th double-double of the season, while
Lily Ray chipped in 14 assists and two service aces. Defensively,
Natalie Harris anchored the back row with 14 digs, while
Mariena Coon contributed three blocks at the net.
The Rangers will return home to De Simone Arena next weekend, hosting Lake Superior State on Friday, October 24 at 6 p.m., followed by a matchup against Saginaw Valley State on Saturday at 2 p.m.
For all things Parkside Volleyball and links to live coverage, please visit
parksiderangers.com/coverage.