Spire volleyball put on a clinic Wednesday night at Ryan Sports Center, in a 3-0 victory over both Peru College and Haskell Indian Nations University.

In the first set against Peru State College, the Spires set the tone with a commanding 25-18 win. The momentum slightly shifted in the second set, where both teams battled closely. However, Saint Mary managed to edge out Peru State with a tight 25-23 scoreline, thanks to critical blocks and timely kills. The third and final set mirrored the intensity of the previous rounds, with USM sealing the match with a 25-20 set victory, concluding the game on a high note.

Key players such as Chloe Byrd and MJ Stephens, who each recorded 11 kills, alongside Saige Hadley with 9 kills, played pivotal roles in the offensive strength of the Spires. Byrd also contributed significantly on defense, achieving 2 blocks. Gabby Kurle was yet again a strong defensive force, led the team in digs with an impressive tally of 26.

With effective assistance distributed amongst the team, Morgan Herrera and Addison Baker both claiming 20 assists each, the Spires efficiently converted their offensive plays. The team also benefited from aces by Stephens, Hadley, and Herrera.

In the second match of the night against Haskell, the Spires dominated securing a quick 3-0 win to wrap up the evening.

The first set saw the Spires set a strong tone with a decisive 25-13 victory. The team's chemistry was evident as Stephens led with 11 kills, followed closely by Hadley with 10 kills and Byrd adding 7 kills to the tally.

The second set saw more competition, ending at 25-21. Despite the closer score, the Spires maintained their composure under pressure, with players like Byrd, and Makenza Holly each contributing 2 blocks. Emma Murphy also added a block.

By the third set, the Spires had fully taken control, overwhelming Haskell with a stunning 25-8 score. The defensive efforts paid off with significant contributions from Kurle who racked up an impressive 23 digs throughout the match. Ava Bojanski and Sophia Frerking also supported the team's defense with 5 digs each. On the serving front, Addison Baker and Ava Bojanski led with 2 aces each, while Saige Hadley added another to their score.

Offensively, Herrera astoundingly set up 21 assists, with teammate Baker following with 12 assists. The teamwork was further evidenced by contributions from Dakotah Garcia, Ava Bojanski, Daniela Perez-Rivera, and Gabby Kurle who all added assists to enable their teammates' attacks.

Looking ahead, the Spires are set to open up KCAC play as they face the Bethany Swedes at Bethany College on Saturday, September 20th.