#16 Cardinals Start 2025 Season with Perfect 13-0 Record

The MAC Cardinals have started the 2025 season in spectacular fashion with an unblemished 13-0 record. The Cardinals have not only won every match but have done so with dominance, dropping just four sets through their first 13 contests.

Season Overview: Undefeated

• Overall Record: 13-0
• Region 16 Record: 1-0
• Winning Streak: 13

Highlights include a five-set thriller over Jefferson College in their first region game and gritty wins against strong programs like Wallace State and Vincennes University at the Blazer Classic in Vincennes, Indiana.

Stat Leaders and Standouts

Offense:

• Lara Gilardi De Souza (SO) has been electric at the net, averaging 3.19 kills/set and leading the team with 165 points.
• Gabrielle Damborowiski (SO) isn't far behind, contributing 3.09 kills/set and a team-high 139 total kills, while also adding 20 service aces.
• Maria Eduarda (SO) has delivered a strong all-around performance with 105 kills, 25 blocks, and 2.44 kills/set.

Setting:

• Belen Ferrufino (SO) has been the engine of the offense, orchestrating the attack with 453 assists (10.07 assists/set) while adding 11 service aces and over 100 digs on defense.

Defense:

• Ava Penuel (SO) is anchoring the back row with 167 digs (3.71 digs/set), showing exceptional court vision and consistency in serve receive.
• Sara Pjevic (FR) has emerged as a formidable middle blocker, notching a team-high 52 total blocks (1.27 blocks/set) while also adding 48 kills.

Looking Ahead

The Cardinals will be tested further in the coming weeks with several matchups against perennial NJCAA powers as the schedule moving into October.