Volleyball Drops Opener in Four Sets

North Sioux City, S.D. – Doane Volleyball opened its 2025 season with energy and grit but ultimately fell in four sets to Dickinson State (N.D.) in a neutral-site contest Friday afternoon. The Tigers struck first with a decisive opening set win, but the Blue Hawks responded with three straight victories to claim the match, 3–1 (22–25, 25–9, 25–12, 25–23).

Doane looked sharp in the first frame, paced by senior outside hitter Brooke Larsen, who tallied a match-high 20 kills to go with 10 digs. Setter Camdyn Carpenter kept the Tigers' offense clicking with 26 assists and 10 digs, while Kate Roseland chipped in six kills and a block. Doane closed the opening set on a strong 6–3 run, finishing it off with a Larsen kill for the early advantage.

Dickinson State answered quickly, using balanced offense and a strong block at the net to control the next two sets. The Blue Hawks leaned on Carmen Pallone, who posted 10 kills, six blocks, and a .500 hitting percentage, while setter Rylee Kogolshak directed the attack with 32 assists, four blocks, and a perfect hitting line of 4-for-5. Their combined effort allowed Dickinson to build momentum and put pressure on the Tigers throughout the middle sets.

The fourth frame showcased Doane's resilience. The Tigers erased multiple deficits behind Larsen's steady arm and key plays from Addison Raebel (five kills, one block) and Kaylee Rammell (team-high 13 digs). Doane pushed the set into the 20s, but Dickinson closed strong behind Pallone and Aubrey Allison to seal the win.

Doane (0–1) totaled 46 digs and 45 team points in the match, showing flashes of promise against an undefeated Blue Hawk squad (3–0). The Tigers now face Bethany (Kan.) at 4:30 PM, encouraged by the grit shown late in their opener.

Final: Dickinson State 3, Doane 1

(generated by ChatGPT)