The Alaska Nanooks women’s volleyball team continued their strong season with a four-set victory over Western Oregon University on Saturday in Fairbanks. This win marks the 11th consecutive victory for the Nanooks, bringing their overall record to 13-1 and maintaining an undefeated 4-0 standing in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC).
The match began with both teams exchanging blocks and points. Presley Engelauf and Elena Guc were key at the net for Alaska, but Western Oregon took the first set 25-22.
In the second set, Elizabeth Jackson played a significant role for the Nanooks, contributing both offensively and defensively. A block by Engelauf and Haylee Lyons extended Alaska’s lead, and a dig from Jackson followed by a kill from Cynphany Henderson secured the set for Alaska.
Alaska dominated the third set with quick plays that challenged Western Oregon’s defense. Tessa Onaga led the back line with 12 digs, while Jackson served three aces during crucial moments. The Nanooks won this set 25-16.
In the fourth and final set, Larissa Barreiros Scatamburlo helped break down Western Oregon’s defense. After an eight-point run by Alaska, Western Oregon attempted a comeback but was stopped by a line kill from Guc. Jackson added another block as Alaska closed out the match with a 25-17 win.
Haylee Lyons led Alaska in kills with 13, while Guc contributed 12 kills. Jackson finished with six aces and four blocks; Engelauf recorded six blocks as well. Three players—Henderson, Onaga, and Lyons—each had double-digit digs. Ainsley Smith provided 19 assists, closely followed by Henderson with 18.
Looking ahead, Alaska will remain at home to face in-state rivals University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves on Thursday, October 2 at 7:00 p.m., aiming to attract a large crowd at Patty Center for what is anticipated to be one of their biggest games of the season.
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