Dupage Policy Journal

Carthage and Loras are set to face off again in the CCIW Men's Volleyball Championship. Both teams earned their spots in the final with decisive semifinal victories on Wednesday night.

The championship match is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Saturday at Tarble Arena in Kenosha.

In the semifinal match, Carthage, ranked number one, defeated Augustana with scores of 25-11, 25-16, and 25-19. Owen Hendricks contributed significantly with 12 kills, 10 digs, and a service ace, while Ryan Morey assisted on most of the team's 40 kills. This victory secured Carthage a place in its fifth consecutive CCIW Championship final. "Carthage attacked at a .337 clip," highlighting the team's effective offense. Owen Otto achieved 10 kills, Devon O’Callaghan delivered three service aces, and Hudson Sweitzer made four block assists with a solo block. Augustana concluded their season with a 12-14 record, with Ben Schultz recording seven kills, a solo block, and a block assist.

Loras, the second-ranked team, bested North Central in their semifinal match with scores of 25-21, 25-20, and 25-23. Corey Mayotte was instrumental for the Duhawks, posting 19 kills and two aces. Nolan Krygsheld added 11 digs and three aces, while Evan Dziadkowiec provided 37 assists and four total blocks. The opening set was competitive, tied at 19-19, but Loras surged to take the frame. Mayotte and Krygsheld contributed key plays to close the set. Loras held a substantial lead in the second set and narrowly clinched the final set, with Mayotte sealing the match. Carson Steinbach led North Central with 12 kills and five digs, and Cooper Lundal along with Tyler Donovan each had six block assists. Donovan recorded 26 assists out of the team's 28.

Both teams aim to secure the CCIW Championship on Saturday.