Iowa State Volleyball Prepares for Lucky Aces Invitational
AMES — Iowa State volleyball is set to wrap up its non-conference slate at the Lucky Aces Women’s Volleyball Invitational in Las Vegas, where they’ll aim to bounce back from a recent loss.
The Cyclones currently hold a 5-3 record and will compete in three matches over three days, starting with a tough challenge against UCLA.
Head Coach Christy Johnson-Lynch emphasized the need for mental resilience, stating, “We want to make sure we are rebounding from last week. We want to continue to work on our mentality and mindframe.”
Adding to the team’s challenges, Iowa State will be without senior right-side hitter Lily Wachholz and sophomore defensive specialist Annalise Grant for the remainder of the season due to injuries.
Match Preview
Game 1: vs. UCLA (6-2), Friday at 6 p.m.
UCLA, under new head coach Matt Werle, has been strong early this season, with their only losses to ranked teams Kentucky and BYU. The Bruins are led by fifth-year middle blocker Marianna Singletary, who excels in both kills and blocks. With an impressive total of 77 blocks this season, UCLA ranks 15th nationally for blocks per set.
Iowa State will need to deliver strong hits while countering one of UCLA’s standout players, libero Lola Schumacher, who averages 3.61 digs per set.
Game 2: vs. Hawaii (6-2), Saturday at 6:30 p.m.
Hawaii is riding a wave of success, having won their last five matches without dropping a set. The Rainbow Warriors’ only losses were against No. 18 Baylor and San Diego. The key player for Hawaii is senior outside hitter Panna Ratkai, who has been a consistent force, including a season-high 21 kills in a recent match.
Iowa State’s outside and middle blockers will need to contend with Hawaii’s strong defense, led by blockers Milianna Sylvester and Rachel Purser.
Game 3: vs. Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (2-5), Sunday at 1 p.m.
Iowa State’s final match in the Invitational will be against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, who has improved their record recently after a successful outing at the Tarleton State Invitational. Ava Hight, a sophomore setter, was named the Southland Conference Setter of the Week for her performance, showcasing her all-around ability.
Iowa State will also need to keep an eye on senior Ally Saleh, who has emerged as a key player, recording 85 kills this season.
With this challenging weekend ahead, the Cyclones will need to draw on their strengths as they prepare to finish their non-conference schedule on a high note.
