West Central Reporter

The Western Illinois University (WIU) Volleyball team is set to begin its 2024 season at the Huskie Invitational in DeKalb, Illinois. The Leathernecks will face off against Northern Illinois and Milwaukee on Friday and Saturday.

This marks WIU's second year as a member of the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC), following their participation in the OVC volleyball tournament last season. Thirteen players return from last year's squad, including key contributors Karli Wenzel, Elizabeth Ziegler, and Brittany Wulf.

Karli Wenzel led WIU with 510 digs last season, securing her place among the top five all-time in career digs for Leatherneck Volleyball. Elizabeth Ziegler appeared in 18 games, contributing significantly in blocks and kills. Brittany Wulf was second on the team with 229 kills and earned recognition as OVC Offensive Player of the Week on October 9th, 2023.

Four freshmen join the team this year. Among them is Karlie Lane from St. Pius X High School in Missouri, who played a crucial role in her team's runner-up finish at the state tournament. Melaina Hawblitzel from Warsaw High School has been recognized for her consistent performance over three years.

Keyana Cruse has been named to the preseason All-OVC team after leading WIU with 403 kills last season. Maggie Craker is listed as a player to watch; she led the team with 1,073 assists during her previous campaign.

Northern Illinois opens their season against WIU at home where they performed well last year under head coach Sondra D'Amore. Meanwhile, Milwaukee defeated WIU at their last meeting during the Cougar Classic.

WIU ended last season with a record of 9-21 but made significant strides by qualifying for their first conference tournament since 2013. They aim to build on this momentum starting with their matches at the Huskie Invitational before hosting further games at Western Hall next month.