Duluth, Minn. – The Saint Scholastica volleyball team hosted the Wildcats of Saint Catherine's University in a MIAC Conference matchup, tonight, Oct. 17. Tonight's Conference clash went to four sets and saw the Wildcats coming out on top, winning 3-1. 

First Set
The opening set was a thriller from the start, featuring four ties and two lead changes. The Saints' offense came out firing, with Abby Zins (Chisago Lakes, MN/Chisago Lakes High School) and Lindsey Baribeau (Biwabik, MN/Mesabi East HS) leading the charge at the net. Setter Natalie Yackley (New Ulm, MN/New Ulm HS) distributed the ball effectively to multiple hitters, keeping St. Catherine's defense guessing. Lilli Rechichi (Ely, MN/Ely Memorial HS) and Cassidy Lustig (Ashland, WI/Ashland HS) added timely kills to keep the Saints neck-and-neck down the stretch, but the Wildcats escaped late to edge out the first set, 26–24.

Second Set
St. Scholastica stormed back in the second set, showcasing composure and precision. Zins and Rechichi continued to dominate offensively, while Yackley set a smooth rhythm with 40 total assists on the night. The Saints' defense held firm — Lauren Kahl (Ridgeland, WI/Prairie Farm HS) anchored the back row with 14 digs, and Ava Ziegler and Ava Decker (Rochester, MN/Century HS) contributed key serves to swing momentum. The Saints out-hit St. Catherine .297 to .182 in the frame and pulled away for a convincing 25–17 win to even the match.

Third Set
The third set was another back-and-forth battle with 12 ties and five lead changes. Baribeau continued her strong night with powerful attacks on the outside, while Zins stayed efficient in the middle, finishing with a match-high 14 kills at a .323 clip. Rechichi and Swangstue added energy at the net, combining for 15 kills in the match. Despite a late push from the Saints, St. Catherine narrowly claimed the third, 25–21.

Fourth Set
In the fourth set, St. Scholastica continued to battle with energy and teamwork. Yackley added key assists and smart ball distribution, while Kahl and Decker combined for excellent defensive reads. The Saints' resilience showed in several extended rallies, but St. Catherine capitalized on a few late runs to close the set 25–15.

What's Next
The Saints (11-11, 3-4 MIAC) will host the Yellowjackets (16-7) of the University of Wisconsin-Superior on Tuesday, October 21 at 7 P.M.