West Central Reporter

Western Illinois University's women's volleyball team is set to host Eastern Illinois University on Tuesday, October 13, at Western Hall in Macomb. The Leathernecks currently hold a 5-14 overall record and are 2-4 in Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) play, while the Panthers come into the match with an 8-6 overall record and a 2-2 mark in conference competition.

In their most recent matches, Western Illinois split a two-game series against UT Martin. The Leathernecks secured a 3–1 victory in Friday's opener but fell in a five-set match on Saturday. Keyana Cruse led the team with 41 kills over the weekend, and Jaleah Bauss contributed significantly both at the service line and as setter.

Freshman setter Jaleah Bauss has received national attention for her performance this season. She is ranked 41st nationally in NCAA aces per set and holds the 23rd spot for total service aces. Graduate outside hitter Keyana Cruse reached two career milestones earlier this year: surpassing both 1,000 career kills at the Billiken Invitational and 1,000 career digs during a home match against Tennessee Tech.

Eastern Illinois enters Tuesday's contest under new head coach Ryan Millar. Last season, EIU finished with a 9-19 overall record and went 5-13 in conference play. The Panthers' roster features several returning players alongside new additions as they aim to improve their standing within the OVC this year.

The historical series between Western Illinois and Eastern Illinois favors EIU with a record of 24 wins to WIU's 16. However, last season Western Illinois won both meetings against EIU by scores of 3-1.

Statistical leaders for Western Illinois so far this season include Keyana Cruse with 253 kills and 265 digs; Jaleah Bauss leads with 271 assists and also tops the team with 31 service aces; Grace Kremer has recorded a team-high of 74 total blocks.

After Tuesday’s matchup, Western Illinois will travel to face Eastern Illinois again on October 21 before returning home to host Tennessee State on October 24-25.

For more information about Leatherneck Volleyball or to follow updates throughout the season, visit GoLeathernecks.com or follow their official accounts on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.