MILWAUKEE – In 2016, the Mount Mary University volleyball team took more steps forward as they put their mark in the Blue Angels history books multiple times throughout the season. After going 3-19 in 2015, the Blue Angels climbed to 5-17 for the 2016 campaign.
Early on this season, Sept. 7, the Blue Angels changed the climate of the program. That change came in the form of their first win against an NCAA institution since Oct. 13, 2012. A 3-0 sweep of Rockford University (1-26) was also the first time in school history that MMU defeated the Regents. Sophomore Lauren Harris (Sheridan, Ill.) guided the offense against RU with a match leading eight kills on 32 total attacks.
"Our team had plenty of memorable moments this season, and I think the first one that sticks out for me is our win over Rockford in three sets," said Head Volleyball Coach Kelsey Peterson. "This was the first sign for me that said, 'We're here to compete.'"
The Blue Angels worked their way through the season against some tough opponents, but found their offense in bunches against the Silver Lake Lakers (7-23). Another 3-0 sweep for MMU was guided by a dominant front court and an accurate serve attack. Harris again led the Blue Angels against the Lakers, this time with six kills. MMU also dished out 13 team service aces as Payton Hintz (Jr./Almond, Wis.) led from the line with four of those aces.
"We were able to experience success much earlier in the season which was very satisfying for everyone." Coach Peterson went on, "We were somewhat successful in bettering our defense and serving which was our other goal. Overall we had fewer serve errors, and more serve aces than last year; in the same number of matches."
MMU hit a rough stretch midseason as they lost six straight matches; 16 consecutive sets. Day two in the Finlandia Invitational sparked another record setting day for the Blue Angels. After tying the school record for team service aces (19) in the first win over Silver Lake, MMU defeated Great Lakes Christian for the school's first two win day since 2012.
The win against GLC had many record setting marks. It was the biggest win margin in a single match (+60), the most team service aces (31) in a single match, the first 20 point match win and Payton Hintz set the school record for individual service aces in a match (9).
The final win of the season came against familiar foe Silver Lake. The Blue Angels won 3-1 and had another impressive performance from behind the line. This
time, Lauren Harris served over eight service aces along with ten kills and teammate Marissa Tun (Jr./Greenfield, Wis.) also launched over eight service aces of her own.
Harris and Tun led multiple offensive categories for the Blue Angels in 2016. Harris led the team in kills per set (1.85), kills (137), hitting percentage (.065) and service aces per set (.65). Junior transfer Tun made an instant impact on her team this season leading in digs per set (4.09), digs (303), assists (221) and assists per set (2.99).
"…all of these moments, to me, were a great indicator of what is to come next season." Peterson went on, "With everyone able to return, I know we can grow upon this new level of competitiveness, and that they'll be hungry for more!"
With another season in the books, the Blue Angels will continue to look to grow in 2017. While the current roster conditions and works out for the upcoming athletic season, the coaches will be hitting the recruiting trail to add even more depth to the roster. Stay tuned to mtmaryathletics.com for updates concerning the Blue Angels and news regarding the teams.
