September 27, 2006

Hastings, NE—The Dana Vikings were defeated by the #8 Hastings College Broncos on Wednesday night 27-30, 30-22, 30-24, 30-26 in Great Plains Athletic Conference volleyball action.  The loss drops the Vikings record to 5-9 (1-3 GPAC) on the season.  The Broncos improved to 19-2 (4-0 GPAC).

            Led by senior middle hitter Darcy Gross (Earling, IA) and freshman outside hitter Lacie Greiner (Boone, IA) the Vikings came out strong winning the first set 30-27.  The Vikings struggled in the second set with breakdowns in the areas of passing and communication and were never able to recover momentum against the Broncos who are #3 this week in the NAIA Region III volleyball rankings. 

Despite the loss Dana Coach Rayna Cain was proud of her team.  “We played a very tough match,” said Coach Cain.  “We were very aggressive with our serves and strong on the block.  It was great to see our team have such a strong attack mentality against such a quality opponent.”

            Gross tallied 14 kills, 2 blocks, and 5 ace serves for the Vikings.  Greiner had 7 kills and 20 digs.  Junior setter Holly Lehmer (Omaha, NE) had 44 set assists.  Junior Ashley Gordon (Dorchester, NE) played well scoring 10 kills.  Freshman Kali Brayfield (Elkhorn, NE) had 10 kills and 4 blocks.  Senior defensive specialist Shanan Arnold (Leavenworth, KS) had 18 digs.

            The Vikings next action will be Friday, September 29, at 7:30 PM in Blair vs. 14-8 (2-3 GPAC) Dordt College.  Dordt is #7 in the NAIA Region III rankings.