It's safe to say one can believe the hype when it comes to the Madison College women's volleyball team. Starting off their 2013 season in the College of DuPage Invitational, the WolfPack dropped a mere two sets across four matches, three of which were against NJCAA Division II opponents, to take home a tournament championship title Saturday.
Friday, the 'Pack opened up the tournament by facing off against Oakton Community College (NJCAA Division II). Led by last year's All-American Terissa Bierd, who picked up right where she left off with eight kills, Madison College swept the Raiders 25-16, 25-20 and 25-7. Sophomores Vanessa Clarson and Alexis Semrow finished with 13 digs and 23 assists respectively.
Next, Madison College met Illinois Valley Community College (NJCAA Division II). Over the first two sets, the team's traded proverbial punches, with the WolfPack winning the first 27-25 before dropping the second 21-25. Then, the 'Pack would get back to business, finishing things off with scores of 25-16 and 25-17. Sophomore opposite Payton Klein unloaded for 12 kills, while Alexis Semrow came up big with her tournament-best performance of 41 assists. Defensively, Vanessa Clarson would collect 23 digs.
Feeling good heading into Saturday afternoon's matches, the WolfPack took on a third straight NJCAA Division II opponent in Highland Community College (IL). For the one and only time in the tournament Madison College dropped the opening set 24-26. However, the WolfPack showed their tenacity in the next three, winning 25-13, 25-13 and 25-20 to close out the match. Elizabeth Mahsem and Katlynn Wirag led the team offensively, each tallying eight kills. Freshman defensive specialist Sydney Clarson finished with an impressive 20 digs and five service aces. Alexis Semrow registered 28 assists.
In their fourth and final appearance, Madison College would wrap things up with a win over North Central Community College Conference (N4C) foe Harper College, ranked sixth in division III. The 'Pack would make quick work of the Hawks, sweeping Harper College 25-17, 25-21 and 25-14. Brooke Gilbertson finished the match with 10 kills, Alexis Semrow had 26 assists, and Payton Klein came up with four blocks.
Payton Klein was named the tournament's most valuable player, with Vanessa Clarson and Sydney Clarson being named to the all-tournament team as well.
Madison College has one more match to complete, visiting the College of DuPage Tuesday, Aug. 27, before returning to H. Douglas Redsten Gymnasium to compete in their home-opener. Thursday, Aug. 29 the team will welcome defending NJCAA Division III National Champion Rock Valley College to town. The team's first home match of the season will take place at 6 p.m.
