JACKSONVILLE, Ill. -- The Ripon College women's volleyball team showed strong stretches of play and several long rallies Friday night, but Illinois College ultimately earned the sweep, 25–15, 27–25, 25–18, in Midwest Conference action.

The Red Hawks put together their best effort in the second set, trading points deep into extra play before the Lady Blues managed to close it out 27–25. Ripon's defense worked hard to keep them in contention, holding Illinois College to a .227 hitting percentage in that frame.

Offensively, sophomore Makenna Harren (Rosemount, Minn., Rosemount HS) and freshman Addi Johnson (Milwaukee, Wis., Wisconsin Lutheran HS) led the way with seven kills apiece, while sophomore Hannah Michaels (Waukesha, Wis., Waukesha North HS) added six. Senior Emily Braun (Juneau, Wis., Dodgeland HS) dished out 10 assists and recorded two aces, and senior Michaela Riege (Waterloo, Wis., Bryant & Stratton College) anchored the back row with nine digs. Senior Lainie Heizler (Park Falls, Wis., Chequamegon HS) contributed both at the net and behind the service line, tallying five kills and helping the Red Hawks' blocking effort.

Despite the loss, Ripon matched Illinois College at the net with six total blocks and continued to show improved rhythm as a team, especially during the tight second set when they erased multiple set points.

The Red Hawks (7–15, 1–3 MWC) return to action Saturday at 1 pm, traveling to Knox College for another conference matchup.