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GRACELAND UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
Graceland Falls to Dordt in Conference Matchup, Prepares for Next Challenge

Graceland Falls to Dordt in Conference Matchup, Prepares for Next Challenge

Box Score
Game Leaders
Dordt (IA)
K: Lance Vermeer - 9
B: 2 Players (#15, #22) - 2
D: Brady Fergen - 11
SA: Kai Chapman - 3
Graceland
K: Elijah Kline - 9
B: 2 Players (#11, #27) - 1
D: AJ Rasquero - 8
SA: Elijah Kline - 1
Team Stats
Full stats

LAMONI, Iowa – The Graceland University Yellowjackets (2-10, 0-5 Heart of America Athletic Conference) faced off against Dordt University (7-4, 2-3) on Tuesday night in a conference showdown at home. Despite a competitive effort, the Yellowjackets fell in straight sets (25-14, 25-16, 25-17) as Dordt's offensive efficiency and strong presence at the net proved difficult to overcome.

Match Recap:
Dordt came out strong, hitting .786 in the first set while limiting Graceland's offensive rhythm. The Defenders built an early lead and never looked back, using dominant net play and efficient serving to secure the opening frame 25-14.

In the second set, Graceland found some momentum behind senior Elijah Kline, who led the offense with 9 kills on the night. Freshman Andrew Cziep also contributed with 7 kills, but Dordt continued to control play at the net. The Defenders capitalized on Graceland's attack errors and closed out the set 25-16.

The Yellowjackets battled in the third set, staying within striking distance behind strong play from setter Luis Garcia, who tallied 20 assists. However, Dordt's balanced attack and ability to finish points proved too much as they sealed the match with a 25-17 win.

Team & Individual Stats:

  • Graceland University (2-10, 0-5 HAAC):

  • Dordt University (7-4, 2-3 HAAC):

    • Andres Guzman: 7 kills, .778 hitting percentage
    • Lance Vermeer: 9 kills, 1 block
    • Lukas Van Groningen: 35 assists, 2 service aces
    • Kai Chapman: 5 kills, 3 service aces

Following the match, head coach Eric Majors acknowledged the challenge Dordt presented but remained optimistic about the team's growth.

"Hats off to Dordt – they're another very tall, athletic Heart Conference team," Majors said. "Our guys battled hard, but our youth and lack of height are going to be a challenge for us this year. We'll head back to the gym tomorrow and get better."

Up Next:
The Yellowjackets will take on Morningside College at 8:00 p.m. next Tuesday, February 25, at the Rosen Verdoorn Sports Center in Sioux City, Iowa.

For more information on Graceland men's volleyball and all Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.