by Atchinson, KS – The Haskell Indian Nations University volleyball team let a two set lead slip way and a fifth set comeback was too late as the Lady Indians opened their season with a (2-3) loss to Lindenwood-Bellevue University at the Benedictine Ravens Volleyball classic. The Indians were led by senior Aspen Sheperd who put down 15 kills in the defeat.
With only two seniors this season and no juniors on the squad, the Indians are wasting no time in getting the freshman recruits into the action as Cailey Lujan, Alliyah Richards, and Raquel Archie joined seniors Aspen Shepeard and Amber Whitehair to the starting line-up.
Cailey Lujan finished with a team high. 667 hitting percentage on 6 kills to start her Haskell career and she also added a team high 5 aces. Alliyah Richards also had 6 kills for Haskell in her debut and was second on the team in hitting percentage. Racquel Archie led the young players with 7 kills and she played big for Haskell on the defense end by collected 12 digs on the night.
Haskell’s youth and relative inexperience showed after the two sets as they were unable to close out the third set and allowed Lindenwood to gain some momentum and win the set and eventually the match.
Haskell will have two more chances at the Benedictine Ravens Classic to get that first win of the season as they play the hosts and then John Brown University on Saturday.
