Dig Pink: LBVB digs deep on “Dig Pink” night

Linn-Benton Volleyball (LBVB) continued their absolute tear in the Southern Region of the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC) by defeating Clark at home three sets to one. LBVB celebrated their annual “Dig Pink” night on Wednesday, Oct. 28, a night devoted to raising funds for breast cancer awareness. This win pushed the team to an 11-0 record in their region and 36-0 overall.

The Roadrunners hosted their toughest opponent in the Southern region as Clark was sitting with a win-loss record of 9-1,  second only to the Roadrunners. LBVB took set one in a very tight 25-23 game, showing that Clark wasn’t going to be a pushover. In set two the Roadrunners fell into a hole early, giving up the first six points to Clark. However, LBVB showed just why they’re the number one team in the region by rallying back to win the set 25-23 in remarkable fashion.

“We try and prepare for tough competition by adding challenges in practice,” said Sophomore Alyvia Sams. “This puts more pressure on us so when we get into a game it’s easier for us. But nothing can truly replicate a game situation because of the intensity and adrenaline you get when playing.”

The Roadrunners gave up set three 19-25, sending the game into a decisive set four. Last week at Chemeketa, the team was pushed to a set five, something that the Roadrunners aren’t used to. The Roadrunners showed an obvious sign of improvement by finishing off Clark in set four, 25-23.

Freshman Montanna Gubrud, who finished the match with 52 assists, was again named NWAC Setter of the Week.

The Roadrunners last three games of the regular season will all be played at home. First, the team hosts  Umpqua on Friday, Nov. 4 at 6:30.

“We will prepare as usual with scouting information, review of how we played them last time and their tendencies,” said Head Coach Jayme Frazier. “We have three weeks left of the season so it’s important to keep our cardio and lifting going strong through the next two weeks. We have really tried to focus on one step at a time so this week will be no different than last in how we prepare.”

The following games will be on Saturday, Nov. 5 against Southwestern Oregon Community College, and Wednesday, Nov. 9 against Lane. Playoffs in the NWAC will start on Nov. 17 and LBVB looks poised to make a great run towards winning it all.

Story by Nick Fields