MAC Wins Region 16, Set To Host District Tournament Nov. 8-9
The MAC volleyball team continued their big season in the Region 16 Championship, defeating MSU–West Plains 3–1.
After dropping the opening set 25–20, the Cardinals found their rhythm and stormed back to take the next three by scores of 25–15, 25–19, and 25–14. The win secured another regional title for head coach Tim Copeland's program.
Sophomore outside hitter Gabrielle Damborowski powered the Mineral Area offense, finishing with a match-high 19 kills and a .441 hitting percentage. She was joined by Maria Eduarda (11 kills, .276) and Lara Gilardi De Souza (10 kills, .200) in a balanced attack that kept the Grizzlies' defense on its heels.
Setter Belen Ferrufino orchestrated the offense to perfection, dishing out 45 assists and adding a service ace and four block assists. As a team, the Cardinals hit .288 and recorded 50 assists, 7 aces, and 34 block assists in a complete performance.
Defensively, libero Ava Penuel anchored the back row with 16 digs, while Sara Pjevic contributed four kills, two aces, and 11 block assists in a standout all-around effort.
With the victory, MAC earns the Region XVI crown and advances as the host of the NJCAA Midwest District B Tournament, where a berth to the national championship will be on the line.
The Cardinals now carry championship momentum into district play, looking to extend their postseason run and return to the national stage.