Point Lookout, MO - The College of the Ozarks Lady Cats found themselves in a tough battle in the first round of pool play at the NCCAA National Volleyball Tournament on Wednesday in Point Lookout, MO. They faced off against the Grace College Lancers but fell short with a final score of 3 sets to 1 in favor of Grace College.

The Lady Cats came out strong, claiming the opening set 25–20 against the Lancers. But Grace College gradually turned the tide, slipping past the Lady Cats 25–22 in a tight second set and then carrying that momentum into a commanding 25–15 victory in the third. The Lady Cats fought hard in the fourth set , but Grace responded and claimed the set 25–19, ending the set and securing the win.

Key performances for the Lady Cats came from Cora Roweton, who led with 11 kills, followed closely by Christa Duffel with 10 kills, and Bri Linehan contributing 8 kills. On the defensive side, Anna Brunner stood out, recording 1 solo block and 7 block assists. Bri Linehan and Christa Duffel also contributed defensively with multiple block assists. The defensive effort saw Anna Howe lead with 13 digs, closely followed by Audrey Riley with 12 digs, and Kamryn Link with 10 digs.

In serving, Audrey Riley delivered 2 aces. Emma Godwin and Kamryn Link also contributed with an ace each, helping to keep the Lady Cats competitive throughout the match. In terms of assists, Riley again led the team with 19 assists while Link added 13.

Looking ahead, the Lady Cats will face Ohio Christian University on Thursday as they continue their journey in the tournament. Holding a season record of 18 wins and 13 losses, the Lady Cats aim to rebound quickly from this setback.