East Michigan News

The Eastern Michigan University volleyball team claimed a hard-fought victory against Bowling Green State University, leaders of the Mid-American Conference, in a five-set match at the Stroh Center on Thursday. This win places both teams at the top of the conference standings, with Eastern Michigan holding the tiebreaker.

Abby Stanford led Eastern's offense with 15 kills and a .433 hitting percentage. Kaili Doctor contributed 14 kills, while Taeley Mahler set a personal record with 10 kills. The Eagles' defense was equally strong, highlighted by Hannah Blaney's 18 digs and career-high performances from Surabhi Srinivasan and Taylor Smith.

The match unfolded as follows:

- Set 1: The Eagles won a closely contested set 26-24.

- Set 2: Bowling Green leveled the match by winning 25-17.

- Set 3: Eastern Michigan regained control with a narrow 30-28 victory.

- Set 4: Bowling Green forced a deciding set by taking it 25-20.

- Set 5: Eastern Michigan emerged victorious in another tight contest, winning the final set 16-14.

Head Coach Kevin Foeman commented on his team's performance this October as they posted their best monthly record under his leadership. "Blaney led the team for the fifteenth time this season with her defensive prowess," noted Foeman.

Stanford achieved double-digit kills for three consecutive matches for the first time in her career. Smith also had an impressive game with her second consecutive double-double and a career-best of assists.

Eastern Michigan's historical rivalry with Bowling Green has seen them improve to a record of 27 wins out of their total encounters. This win marks their first triumph at Bowling Green since October 2015 and secures three consecutive victories for the first time since their championship-winning season in 2018.

Next up, Eastern Michigan will face off against Toledo on Friday evening.

Stay connected through @EMUVolleyball and @EMUAthletics on social media platforms for more updates on EMU volleyball activities.