MACOMB, Ill. – Chicago State volleyball closed out its weekend at the Leatherneck Classic on Saturday, showing grit and growth in a four-set match against Valparaiso. The Cougars pushed the Beacons throughout the afternoon, highlighted by a strong third set that swung momentum in their favor before Valpo prevailed, 3-1 (25-15, 25-15, 20-25, 25-14).
Nayella George continued her impressive play at the net, posting a team-best 12 kills while adding eight digs and two blocks.
Zeynep Ertam provided steady production with 11 kills and four blocks, while setter
Leah Linares Castro distributed 18 assists to go with a team-high 14 digs. Defensively, libero
Alyssa Ferreira anchored the back row with 12 digs.
The Cougars' best stretch came in the third set, when they used balanced attacking and aggressive blocking to take control. George and Ertam combined for six kills in the frame, while
Tarcy Mayah and
Jocelyn Carter added key points to help CSU secure the 25-20 win. Chicago State finished the match with nine team blocks, showing their ability to disrupt Valparaiso's attack.
With the Leatherneck Classic complete, the Cougars continue their early-season development against a strong non-conference schedule. CSU returns to action next week looking to build on Saturday's momentum and translate their fight into wins as the season progresses.
