MAC Dominates At Cardinal Classic

October 13, 2025 — The #17 ranked Mineral Area College volleyball team delivered an outstanding performance at the Cardinals Classic held on their home court, securing three straight victories against highly ranked opponents: #7 Trinity Valley Community College, John A. Logan College, and #19 Indian Hills Community College.

Win vs. #7 Trinity Valley CC (3-1)

The Cardinals opened the tournament against a tough opponent, #7 Trinity Valley Community College. match was a thrilling four-set battle with the Cardinals prevailing 25-18, 23-25, 25-23, 25-18.

Mineral Area demonstrated a powerful and balanced attack throughout the match, led by standout performances from Gabrielle Damborowiski, who posted 21.5 points and an impressive .368 hitting percentage, and Lara Gilardi De Souza, contributing 19.5 points with consistent blocks and digs. The Cardinals' offense maintained strong efficiency (.320 hitting percentage overall), and their defense was equally relentless, recording 63 digs to wear down Trinity Valley.

Sweep Against John A. Logan College (3-0)

The momentum carried into the second day, where Mineral Area College dominated John A. Logan College in a clean 3-0 sweep (25-15, 25-17, 25-14). The Cardinals were efficient from start to finish, boasting a collective hitting percentage of .424.

Lara Gilardi De Souza again led the team with 13.5 points and a .526 hitting percentage, while Olivia Shaw added 10.5 points, bolstered by strong blocking presence at the net. The team's defense shined, with 28 digs to limit John A. Logan's opportunities.

Finishing Strong With Win Over #19 Indian Hills CC (3-0)

In their final match at the Cardinals Classic, Mineral Area faced off against #19 Indian Hills Community College and secured a convincing 3-0 win (25-11, 25-21, 27-25).

Mineral Area showed great resilience in a tighter third set that tested their nerves.  Gabrielle Damborowiski contributed 12 points and sustained pressure on Indian Hills with a .280 hitting percentage, while Lara Gilardi De Souza matched her 14 points with a stellar .417 hitting percentage.

The Cardinals' defense was especially impressive, tallying 51 digs and 11 blocks throughout the match, which disrupted Indian Hills' rhythm and scoring chances.  On the weekend, Ava Penuel led MAC with 48 total digs.

With the three wins at the Cardinal Classic, MAC improved to 21-1.  The Cardinals will return to action on Tuesday, October 14 when they host Region 16 opponent MSU-West Plains at 5:50pm.