ARDEN HILLS, Minn. – In their home opener against nationally ranked competition, the Bethel University volleyball team showed resilience and firepower, nearly forcing a fourth set before falling to No. 18 UW-Eau Claire, 3-0 (25-18, 25-15, 28-26) Wednesday evening at the Robertson Center.

Despite the sweep on the scoreboard, the Royals played their most complete match of the young season, highlighted by a thrilling Set 3 where they held a late lead and pushed the Blugolds into extra points.

Set 1: 

The Royals jumped out to an early lead with a pair of service aces from Lauren Hetfeld and an opening kill from Cosette Carto. Sophia Rubio kept the offense flowing with strong setting, finding Hannah Penke, Sara Scherber, and Carto for key kills. But midway through the set, Eau Claire turned up the pressure, using a balanced attack and a 6-0 run to pull away and claim the opener 25-18.

Set 2: 

In Set 2, Bethel continued to battle, with Peyton Howie, Eleanor Pelzel, and Chiara Houser adding kills to keep the Royals in reach. A few service and attack errors allowed UWEC to build a cushion, and the visitors capitalized with efficient offense led by Bailey Leeke and Mya Cinnamo, taking the second frame 25-15.

Set 3: 

The third set showcased Bethel's grit and determination. After trading points early, Olivia Johnson sparked a Royals run with a string of tough serves, including back-to-back aces, and helped Bethel build a 17-12 lead. Howie, Penke, and Pelzel delivered timely kills, while Scherber and Therrien helped the Royals reach set point at 24-23.

But Eau Claire's experience under pressure showed, as they fended off two set points and escaped with a 28-26 win to seal the match.

🔢 Stat Highlights

• Peyton Howie led the attack with several key kills and blocks at the net.

• Olivia Johnson served up a pair of aces and added late-set kills in the third.

• Sophia Rubio dished out assists across all three sets and anchored the Royals' offense.

• Eleanor Pelzel, Sara Scherber, and Chiara Houser made an impact at the net with kills and blocks.

📅 Next Up

The Royals hit the road this weekend for a three-match stand at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois. Action kicks off Friday, Sept. 12 at 7:00 p.m. as Bethel takes on the tournament host Augustana (IL). The Royals will continue play Saturday with two more matchups as part of the weekend invitational.