HU Topples No. 21 Marian in Straight Sets

HUNTINGTON, Ind. - The Huntington volleyball team picked up a marquee win Tuesday night, sweeping No. 21 Marian 3–0 (25–18, 25–14, 25–23) inside Platt Arena. With the victory, HU improves to 12–3 overall and 3–2 in the Crossroads League while notching its third win this season against an NAIA nationally ranked or receiving-votes opponent. 

The triumph also echoes Huntington's sweep of Marian on October 12, 2022, a season in which the Knights advanced to the NAIA national quarterfinals. 

Freshman outside hitter Maggie Hollon played beyond her years with 10 kills and a match-high 12 points, while senior Haley Kruse provided veteran leadership with 10 kills on .273 hitting and 10 digs for a double-double. 

Setter Lauren Ross directed the offense with 19 assists and two aces, while Kennedy Urban added 12 assists. Middle hitters Trevyn Terry (.429 hitting, 4 kills) and Leah Carter (3 kills, 4 blocks) attacked and defended the middle of the net. On the defensive side, libero Layla Meyer anchored the back row with 13 digs. 

Huntington set the tone with efficient hitting in the first two sets (.257 and .286) before staving off a late push from Marian in the third to secure the sweep. 

"I am so proud of this team's approach to training this week and their execution of our game plan," said Forester Coach Kelsey Herber. "Our primary focus was to train finishing a tight set, and we had a beautiful opportunity in set three to do that against a great Marian team." 

The Knights (10–4, 2–3 CL), ranked No. 21 nationally, were limited to a .048 hitting percentage. By claiming another victory over a ranked foe, the Foresters proved that they have the talent, depth, and resilience to challenge for the top of the Crossroads League and make noise on the national stage. 

Next up, Huntington hosts another nationally ranked powerhouse as No. 7 Indiana Wesleyan comes to Platt Arena on Saturday for a 1:00 p.m. first serve.