Denver, Colo. - The Colorado State University Pueblo volleyball team got back to its winning ways Friday evening, defeating Colorado Christian University 3–1 (25–12, 25–18, 15–25, 25–22) in RMAC Power Pod Play on the campus of Regis University.
The ThunderWolves improved to 14–7 overall (7–3 RMAC). While the victory did not count toward their conference record, it bolstered the Pack's regional résumé and snapped a two-match skid.
CSU Pueblo started fast, dominating the opening two sets behind efficient offense and strong serving before Colorado Christian responded to take the third. The Pack regrouped in the fourth, holding off a late Cougar rally to seal the win and secure their third victory over CCU this season.
Senior outside hitter Caelyn Gunn powered the ThunderWolves with a match-high 18 kills, adding nine digs and two blocks to finish with 19.0 points. Middle hitter Golden Finch added seven kills on .294 hitting with two blocks, while junior middle hitter Finja Schul turned in another strong two-way performance, posting six kills, six blocks, and two service aces to total 11.0 points.
Junior setter Elena Stankovic continued her excellent play, dishing out 35 assists while adding 13 digs and six service aces for one of her most complete outings of the season. Senior libero Megan Mattingly anchored the defense with 16 digs, and defensive specialist Kacee Garcia chipped in eight digs off the bench.
As a team, the Pack hit .144 with 50 kills on 146 swings while totaling 10 service aces, 62 digs, and eight total blocks. CSU Pueblo's serving depth was on full display, with Stankovic and Schul combining for eight of the team's aces, keeping Colorado Christian out of rhythm for much of the match.
Colorado Christian (9–13, 4–6 RMAC) was led by Renee Phillips with eight kills and four blocks, while Sierra Crist recorded six kills and 15 digs. Libero Kristina House tallied 18 digs for the Cougars.
After opening RMAC play 7–0 before facing three of the league's top programs, CSU Pueblo responded with poise and execution. Under first-year head coach and Pack alum Jordan Bruere, the ThunderWolves continue to display the balance and resilience that have defined their season.
The Pack will look to carry that momentum into Saturday afternoon's match as they take on Regis University at 3:00 p.m. to close out the RMAC Power Pod weekend.
