MACOMB, IL – Western Illinois volleyball protected its home court on Thursday night, sweeping Chicago State 3-0 inside Western Hall. The win moves WIU to 3-8 overall and showcased the Leathernecks' depth across the board.

Set One
The Leathernecks set the tone right away, jumping to a 7-1 lead thanks to kills from Kennedy Adair, Kiyah Franklin, and Keyana Cruse. Hillary Estes added a service ace during the early run, and WIU's block slowed down the Cougars at the net. Adair was a difference-maker, putting away five kills in the opener, while Cruse chipped in three. WIU's 15 total kills in the frame were too much for Chicago State, as the Leathernecks never trailed on their way to a 25-19 win.

Set Two
WIU turned up the defensive intensity in the second set. Grace Kremer and Audrey Pender combined for multiple block touches, while libero Grace Ulatowski kept rallies alive with scrappy digs. Offensively, Cruse led the charge with five kills, and Norton sparked the team from the service line with an ace. Adair stayed consistent with three more kills, while Kremer was efficient in the middle, finishing with two kills on three swings. The Leathernecks closed the set on a run, pulling away 25-15 to take control of the match.

Set Three
The third set was the tightest of the night, but Western Illinois' poise sealed the sweep. Cruse and Adair once again shouldered the offense, combining for nine kills in the frame. Kremer stepped up with back-to-back service aces, flipping the momentum back to WIU after the Cougars closed within one. On match point, setter Alysia Perez connected with Audrey Pender, who finished off the sweep with a kill.

Looking Ahead
The Leathernecks continue the Leatherneck Classic this weekend (Sep. 19-20), facing Valparaiso and Missouri.
 

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