Milwaukee, WI- Friday evening was an exciting night for the Mount Mary Volleyball program. Not only did the Blue Angels host Alverno in their final contest of the 2023 season, they proudly recognized three seniors, Morgan Vander Kooy, Caitlyn Krell and Brianna Ecker. The three seniors participated in their final collegiate match and were honored following the evening's contest.
Set one began in a special fashion as injured MMU senior Morgan Vander Kooy was allowed a kill to conclude her Mount Mary career. Mount Mary carried the momentum from this great moment to a win in the first set. It was a back and forth affair, but the Blue Angels hung on for the 25-23 win.
Set two saw the Inferno bounce back and win the second frame by a 25-19 score. MMU roared into set three and took a 25-15 victory.
Mount Mary looked like the superior team through most of set four. Alverno would stage a late comeback but they were held off by the Blue Angels. MMU took set four by a 25-19 final to clinch the match.
The Blue Angels (7-18) finish the season on a high note with two consecutive wins. Young players developed throughout the season also, with Harlee McDowell, Rosalinda Palacios and Elizabeth Irving playing large roles by season's end. The development and improvement of the group looms as a very positive sign for the future of Blue Angel volleyball.
The stars of this night were the three honored MMU seniors. Brianna Ecker completes her career as the most decorated player in the history of Blue Angel volleyball. She is the program's all-time leader in kills, points and digs. This includes her being part of the exclusive 1000 kills club, finishing with 1052 kills for her prestigious career.
Caitlyn Krell has been a major contributor in her two seasons for the Blue Angels, she finishes her career with over 750 assists in just two seasons.
Finally, Morgan Vander Kooy, who in spite of injury was a constant positive presence on the MMU team, and she racked up countless academic honors and recognition throughout her time at Mount Mary.
All live coverage of Mount Mary volleyball can be found here on www.mtmaryathletics.com
