SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The University of Sioux Falls Volleyball team begins Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) play this weekend with a challenging road swing to # 24 Minnesota Duluth and Bemidji State. The Cougars face the Bulldogs on Friday, Sept. 19 at 6 p.m. in Duluth before heading to Bemidji for a 4 p.m. matchup with the Beavers on Saturday, Sept. 20.

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Season Recap

USF enters conference play with a 5-3 overall record, highlighted by sweeps over Flagler, South Dakota Mines, and Adams State, as well as a five-set thriller against Embry-Riddle. The Cougars have hit .275 as a team while limiting opponents to just .198, and their defensive presence at the net has produced 2.34 blocks per set compared to just 1.45 from opponents.

The Cougars finished 2-2 last weekend with Courtney Holsteen and Sadie Voss earning All-Tournament honors while closing out non-conference play.

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Scouting The Cougars

• Sadie Voss has been the offensive spark, ranking among the NSIC leaders with 92 kills (3.17 per set) while adding eight blocks.

• Aubrey Gates follows closely with 77 kills (2.66 per set) and 13 blocks.

• Courtney Holsteen adds 64 kills at a strong .329 clip, while Haley Wolfe is hitting an impressive .376 with 33 total blocks.

• At the net, Ella Walker has been a standout, recording 34 blocks (1.17 per set).

• Running the offense, Elise Gillen has tallied 162 assists (5.59 per set), while Liz Kopp adds 132 helpers (4.55 per set).

• Defensively, Maci Lerseth leads the back row with 104 digs (3.59 per set).

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Series History

• Minnesota Duluth: USF is 2-18 all-time against the Bulldogs, with their second win coming last season when the Cougars claimed a 3-1 victory.

• Bemidji State: The Cougars hold a commanding 16-1 edge in the all-time series with the Beavers with an 8-0 road record.

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The Road Ahead

Minnesota Duluth has long been a national power in Division II volleyball and continues to be one of the NSIC's most consistent contenders, providing a tough road test to open conference play. Bemidji State follows on Saturday, giving the Cougars a quick turnaround against a familiar opponent. USF has enjoyed sustained success in the series with the Beavers, but both matchups present important opportunities as the Cougars look to set the tone for the conference season.

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How to Follow

Live Video: Available via the NSIC Network
Live Stats: Accessible through USFCougars.com.

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