Box Score TIFFIN – There has been a long history between the volleyball teams of Ohio Northern University and Heidelberg University, with the Polar Bears holding an overwhelming 55-7 record in the series entering Tuesday's match. That record would not be a sign of things to come, however, as the Berg rode the momentum they gained in a sweep of #6 Mount Union on Saturday and went into Ada and won for the first time ever on ONU's home court, doing so in impressive fashion and defeating the home team in straight sets.
The first set opened up with Heidelberg jumping out to an early 11-5 advantage thanks to a 6-point run. The Berg maintained that advantage throughout and finished off the set when Mikaela Weldy drilled home a kill to seal the set 25-18.
The second set looked much like the first, as it was tied 14-14 before Heidelberg rallied for four consecutive points. From there on they went back and forth with the Berg coming out on top 25-22.
The biggest statement was made in set three when Heidelberg jumped all over the Polar Bears (15-9, 3-3 OAC) early and rolled out to a 13-4 lead. It would not take much from there, as the Berg cruised to a 25-16 win in the third set, putting the finishing touches on a statement victory.
Sophomore Janessa Scott had a terrific performance on the day, tying a career-high with 15 kills to lead the team, recording a hitting percentage of .345 in the match. "Janessa was ridiculous tonight" said head coach Jason Miller. "We seem to be doing all of the little things well which has resulted in wins ... it has helped us build a lot of confidence late in the season. Our outsides [Scott and Kluding] played really well. They kept us in a lot of points and helped us terminate points."
Also contributing to the attack for Heidelberg was Sarah Parker and Jamie Kluding, who picked up 11 and 10 kills, respectively.
Stephanie Romie had another excellent match as a setter, tallying 35 assists in the sweep while Jubilee Haase led the team with 20 digs.
Following the win, Heidelberg improved to 16-11 on the season, including a 5-2 mark in OAC play. The win moves the Berg into the top four of the OAC standings with two conference matches to play, putting them in control of their own destiny for hosting a quarterfinal OAC tournament match.
The next match for Heidelberg will be on Saturday, October 25th, when they host non-conference foe Case Western Reserve. That match is scheduled to begin at 4:00 p.m. in Seiberling Gymnasium.