ELLENSBURG, Wash. – The Central Washington University volleyball team clinched the GNAC championship Thursday night, sweeping Western Washington 3-0 (25-18, 25-19, 25-21) at Nicholson Arena. The Wildcats improved to 19-4 overall and 15-2 in GNAC play. Central officially secured the conference title after Simon Fraser fell to Northwest Nazarene earlier in the evening, marking the third championship season in a row for the Wildcats.
How It Happened
Central Washington controlled much of the match, finishing with a .288 hitting percentage while holding Western Washington to .111. The Wildcats also dominated at the net, recording 11 blocks compared to five for the Vikings. Central finished with advantages in kills (44-32), assists (38-30) and points (58-42).
Ellie Marble led the Wildcats offensively with 15 kills while hitting .400. Corinne Westby added 11 kills, and Kennedy Webb contributed nine. Kailey Willsey paced the defensive effort at the net with seven blocks, while Brooklyn Parker led all players with 20 digs. Kayleigh-Shay Chang recorded 17 assists.
First Set
The Wildcats established control early, building a 7-2 advantage before Western Washington responded. Central maintained its lead throughout the set, using a balanced offensive attack and strong play at the net to keep the Vikings at a distance. The Wildcats closed out the opening frame 25-18.
Second Set
Central carried its momentum into the second set, opening with a 3-0 run. WWU battled to stay within reach, but the Wildcats continued to apply pressure. Willsey helped anchor the defense with a block and a service ace, while Marble delivered several key kills down the stretch. Central secured the set 25-19 to take a 2-0 match advantage.
Third Set
Western made its strongest push in the third set, keeping the score close through the opening stages. The teams traded points through a 17-17 tie before Central began to create separation. The Wildcats used a late run to move ahead 23-20 before Marble's kill brought Central to match point. Parker then delivered a service ace to seal the 25-21 set victory and complete the sweep.
Up Next
The Wildcats return to Nicholson Arena on Saturday, Nov. 14, hosting No. 21 Simon Fraser at 1 p.m. Central will look to close out the regular season against the Red Leafs following its GNAC championship-clinching performance.
