Come Sunday morning, the Ball State University women's volleyball team will have a clearer idea of where it stands in the Mid-American Conference West Division standings.
The Cardinals (7-11, 3-1 MAC) are in a three-way tie for first place in the West with Western Michigan University and Central Michigan University. They travel to division rivals Northern Illinois University tonight and preseason MAC West favorite Western Michigan on Saturday in two key weekend matchups.
"This weekend is pretty huge," outside hitter Julie Breivogel said. "For one, two wins on the road would be big just because we're in their gym, and two, just to be on top in the MAC by ourselves would prove that Ball State is a completely different squad [from last season]."
In the match against Northern Illinois, (10-8, 2-2 MAC) Ball State will have to contend with junior outside hitter Meagan Schoenrock, whose 4.84 kills per set average leads the MAC and is third nationally.
Middle blocker Alisha Green said she is ready for the opportunity to defend against the two-time second team All-MAC player.
"I'm really excited for the challenge," Green said. "I think that, especially blocking with Elaina [Kakatolis], we have a pretty tough assignment."
Libero Maddie Hughes ranks fourth in the MAC with a 4.15 digs-per-set average.
Coach Dave Boos said he expects to face a fired up Husky squad.
"It's difficult to play a team that can spread out the ball like Northern Illinois can," Boos said. "They're a very emotional team and play extremely hard. We need to try to match their intensity."
The Cardinals then travel to 2007 MAC West champion Western Michigan on Saturday.
The Broncos (12-3, 3-1 MAC) feature the MAC's top setter in Jillian Mitchell, who averages 10.89 assists per set.
Breivogel said she expects plenty of action from the Western Michigan offense.
"I know they graduated a few, but Western Michigan is still a very solid team," she said. "They will be surprised with how well we've progressed."
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