North Newton, Kan.—Spire volleyball competed down to the final whistle in a challenging quarterfinal match in the 2025 KCAC Volleyball Championship against the Bethel College Threshers on Tuesday, November 11th at Thresher Gymnasium in North Newton. The match, and subsequently USM's season, concluded with a nail-biting 2-3 loss.

The first set saw the Spires falling behind quickly, losing 18-25. However, USM rallied and made a thrilling comeback in the second and third sets, winning both with identical scores of 25-23, deciding they weren't going down without a fight. The fourth set proved tough again as the Spires were overpowered by the Threshers, 14-25. With everything to play for, the fifth and final set turned into a fight to stay alive and with each point, athletes from USM and Bethel felt the weight of what was at stake. However, after suffering attacking and service errors, giving the Threshers the final 5 points needed, the Spires were edged out 12-15, concluding the end of the 2025 season.

Key performances from the Spires included senior Ainsley Gardner leading with 18 kills, followed by senior Chloe Byrd and sophomore Emma Murphy, who contributed 9 and 6 kills respectively. On the defensive end, Makenza Holly, Sophia Frerking, and again Gardner were significant, blocking numerous aggressive attempts from the opposing Threshers. Digs were led once again by senior Gabby Kurle with an impressive 26, supported by Ava Bojanski and Gardner. Aces were abundantly served by MJ Stephens, Kurle, and Saige Hadley, enhancing the team's score tally in crucial moments. The match also witnessed commendable assists from Morgan Herrera and Addison Baker with 22 and 19 assists, along with serving contributions from Daniela Rivera-Perez and Kurle.

The University of Saint Mary Spires end their season holding a final record of 21 wins and 12 losses, with a conference tally of 7-6. Congratulations to all for an exciting season and everything that is yet to come.