On Nov. 16, the Rockhurst women’s volleyball match against William Jewell College carried much higher stakes than usual. It was not only senior day, the final conference game and a Kansas City Crown matchup, but also a crucial factor in determining the Hawks’ postseason position. A win meant a secure position to receive a bid to the NCAA DII Midwest Regional tournament.
The teams are set for a rematch as Rockhurst’s postseason vision became a reality with a bid to the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional Tournament in Big Rapids, Michigan. The Hawks, the 5th seed, will face 4th-seeded Lewis at 7 p.m. ET on Dec. 5. The tournament runs from Dec. 5-9.
“It is such a privilege to have this opportunity and be on this team. It’s very easily overlooked that only 64 teams out of 300 plus are still playing volleyball and we are one of them,” said junior outside hitter and second team all-conference honoree Sarah Pyle. “Seizing this moment and staying in it are really important.”
Head coach Trent Jones emphasizes the importance of preparation and teamwork as key factors for the team’s success.
“We need to keep doing what got us into the NCAA tournament. We need to serve tough, play good defense and have terminal attacks at the net,” said Jones.
Jones described this moment as a key part of their overall plan, highlighting how the team’s hard work and strategic approach throughout the season have set them up for success in the postseason.
“We always start out the season with one specific goal. And that is to make it to the NCAA Tournament. There is a long history of postseason success here at Rockhurst and when I became the head coach 4 years ago that is something that was really important to me to continue.”
With their most recent loss fueling the team’s motivation, the Hawks hope to not only avenge their previous loss but battle all the way to the NCAA National Championships, which are Dec. 12-14 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
“Personally, I am pumped for the rematch against Lewis. I truly do believe we are a better team. We just need to play with more confidence and fluidity. I truly do think our team can rise to the occasion in these big moments,” said Pyle.
