ELLENSBURG, Wash.—The Central Washington volleyball team broke into the American Volleyball Coaches Association Top 25 Poll this week after taking down No. 15 Western Washington and No. 22 Simon Fraser. The Wildcats are 3-1 against ranked opponents this season.

The Wildcats took the No. 25 spot after reviving 98 votes. 

"It's a very nice recognition for the players and verification we've done some good things so far. There are so many good teams out there so it's good to be in the mix." CWU Head Coach Mario Andaya said. 

The Wildcats first encounter with a ranked opponent was No. 11 MSU Denver at the Western Washington Invitational. The Wildcats forced the Roadrunners into a fifth set, but ultimately lost the final set and the match, 15-11.

In their second encounter with a ranked opponent the Wildcats swept No. 13 St. Cloud State at home during the CWU/SPU Invitational. The Wildcats wound up sweeping Hawaii Pacific and Biola (Calif.) during the tournament as well.

Last week the Wildcats picked up arguably their most important ranked win against GNAC rival No. 15 Western Washington. The Wildcats took the Vikings by storm, winning in a quick four sets at home. After this week's poll, Western Washington fell to No. 20 in the AVCA rankings.

Most recently the Wildcats swept No. 22 Simon Fraser at home on Saturday. The Wildcats made quick work of the GNAC rivals from Canada. Simon Fraser most notably took down previous No. 3 Cal State San Bernardino and previous No. 13 St. Cloud State. Simon Fraser has fallen outside the top 25 but are still receiving votes.

To view the full AVCA Div II Top 25 Poll and results, click HERE.