ARDEN HILLS, Minn.—The NCAA office published the Midwest Region Rankings Thursday afternoon, which included both Bethel University at No. 8 and Saint Mary's University at No. 7. The Royals proved to the committee and others nationwide, that they deserve to be at least one spot higher—if not more—by defeating the Cardinals at home Friday night 3-0.
 
BU momentum-building sweep over SMU resulted in 25-21, 25-15, and 25-18 game scores. The Royals got off to a quick start in each set, which enabled them to dictate play throughout the entire match. Bethel finished with 53 points, opposed to Saint Mary's 37. Those 53 points were comprised of 36 kills, three aces, and 14 blocks (SMU was limited to just two blocks).
 
Several members of the BU volleyball squad had standout performances. Included was Carlee Hoppe, who posted 12 digs, 10 kills, and an attacking percentage of .308. Tegan LaBerge tallied four blocks, nine kills, and an attacking mark of .381. Tina Hoppe added eight kills and seven digs.
 
Katie Lubben maximized her time on the court by assisting 22 kills. Her teammate, Mikayla Morrow, supplemented the team with nine assists. Kali Johnson was second on the team in digs with 10 total digs throughout the match.
 
The Cardinals' Macki Fadness led all players with 12 kills, while libero Lex Krogstad recorded 17 digs.
 
The Royals, who are now in second place among all MIAC teams, have the opportunity to solidify their second-place seed and continue their push for the top spot tomorrow night in St. Paul when they battle the University of St. Thomas at 7 p.m.