DWU splits on day one of Corn Palace Classic

MITCHELL, S.D. – The Dakota Wesleyan University volleyball team split two matches on the first day of the Corn Palace Classic Friday at the Corn Palace in Mitchell, S.D.

The Tigers topped Dickinson State University in straight sets to open the day, 25-16, 25-16, 25-20. Clarke University handed DWU its first loss of the season in three sets to close the first day, 25-17, 25-23, 25-21. The split moves DWU to 4-1 overall on the season.

Against the Blue Hawks, senior Libero Taylor Spence (North Branch, Minn.) hit a career milestone, recording her 1,000^th dig. Spence is just the second Tiger in program history to reach 500 kills and 1,000 digs in a career. Spence finished the match with 16 digs.

Senior outside hitter Lauren Tadlock (Rapid City, S.D.) posted a match-high 14 kills, while digging seven balls against DSU. Freshman Rebecca Frick (Yankton, S.D.) posted 10 kills and two total blocks, while senior setter Michelle Van Epps (Lakefield, Minn.) added 35 assists.

In the loss to Clarke, Tadlock led the Tigers in kills, as she has in each match this season, recording nine to go along with seven digs. Sophomore middle blocker Sydney Eddy (Jackson, Minn.) was a force up front for DWU with three solo blocks and two block assists. Van Epps added 28 assists and five digs.

The Tigers continue play in the Corn Palace Classic against Valley City State University at 4 p.m. Saturday.