Bulldogs split matches at Hastings College Tournament

Concordia University went 1-1 in the opening day of the Hastings College Tournament on Friday.  The Bulldogs suffered a 3-1 loss to Black Hills State and then defeated McPherson College 3-2 in the second match of the day. 

Scores of the loss to Black Hills State were 25-22, 25-15, 22-25 and 25-20.  Chelsea Vaudt had 10 kills, three solo blocks and three assisted blocks to lead the way for Concordia in the loss to Black Hills State.  Sloan Brandon added nine kills and a team-high 12 digs, while Alex Szalawiga totaled eight kills and 10 digs in the match.  Kaylie Mellema had 23 set assists, and Alexa Hopping added 17 assists for the Bulldogs.

Concordia got off to a great start then had to hold on for the victory over McPherson College.  Scores of the match were 25-21, 25-21, 24-26, 25-27 and 15-13.  Chelsea Vaudt pounded 16 kills, and Amanda Kisker added 10 for the Bulldogs.  Ashlea Vaudt delivered eight kills, while Brandon added seven kills and eight digs.  Meghan Tinkham and Szalawiga added seven kills apiece, and Szalawiga finished with 18 digs.  Hopping and Mellema handed out 25 and 21 assists, respectively, for Concordia in the win.

The Bulldogs are 8-5 overall on the season and will conclude play in the Hastings Tournament with two more matches on Saturday.