GRINNELL, Iowa -- The Ripon College women's volleyball team battled through competitive stretches and several long rallies Saturday afternoon, but Grinnell came away with the sweep, 26–24, 25–17, 25–18, in Midwest Conference play.

The Red Hawks opened strong in the first set, pushing the Pioneers to extra points behind a balanced offensive effort. Sophomore Lainie Heizler (Park Falls, Wis., Chequamegon HS) paced Ripon with nine kills, while sophomore Makenna Harren (Rosemount, Minn., Rosemount HS) added eight. Freshman Hannah Michaels (Waukesha, Wis., Waukesha North HS) chipped in four kills and two blocks to round out a solid frontline performance.

Senior setter Emily Braun (Juneau, Wis., Dodgeland HS) directed the offense with 14 assists and contributed six digs, while senior Michaela Riege (Waterloo, Wis., Bryant & Stratton College) anchored the back row with a match-high 14 digs and three service aces. At the net, senior Alexis Wieczorek (Crete, Ill. Crete-Monee HS) led the blocking effort with four total blocks.

Ripon totaled 31 kills and 38 digs on the day, staying within striking distance throughout much of the match. Despite their strong start, the Red Hawks couldn't slow Grinnell's efficient attack, which hit .326 overall compared to Ripon's .156.

The Red Hawks (8–16, 2–4 MWC) will look to regroup next week as they continue conference play on the road.