Photo by Shira Oneal-Bend

Story by Sebastián Abdón Ibarra

The University of La Verne volleyball team defeated the Whittier College Poets in straight sets on the road for their first conference win of the season. With the win, the Leopards are back on track to making a run for the SCIAC Postseason.  

Set Scores: 25-20, 25-21, 25-18

After winning the first two tightly contested sets, La Verne comfortably put the Poets away in the third set to secure the win. As a team, La Verne had 72 digs and 12 blocks in the game. They also limited their attack errors and took advantage of a poor attacking performance by the Poets who hit just .055 in the game. 

Emily Heldenbrand and Kari Esseff stepped up in this one to provide most of the Leos' efficient attacking. Heldenbrand had one of her best games of the season, tying her season-high with 10 kills to lead all scorers, and a team-high .267 kill percentage. She also led La Verne with both 20 digs and 16 assists and added a pair of blocks. Esseff had seven kills and a .261 kill percentage with a pair of blocks.

Noelani Soma and Ayana Mier chipped in with nine and eight kills, respectively. Rylee Callen led the Leos with four blocks.

Xenia Villagomez was the most effective attacker for the Poets with eight kills and a .350 kill percentage. 

With the win, La Verne improves to 5-7 overall and 1-4 in the SCIAC. The Poets fall to 3-11 overall and 1-3 in conference action.

The Leos will be back at the Sports Science and Athletics Pavilion on Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. against the Cal Lutheran Regals.