IOWA FALLS, IOWA -- Despite recording season-highs in both digs and blocks, the ECC volleyball team lost a tough five-set match to conference foe Southwestern CC on Wednesday night at Ditmer Gymnasium.  The Panthers took a 2-1 lead after claiming the third set, but the visitors won the next two sets and the match, gaining some revenge for a 3-0 ECC win earlier in the season.  After SWCC took the opening set, 25-21, Ellsworth won 25-18 and 25-17.  The Spartans prevailed 25-23 to even the match at 2-all, then won the deciding set, 15-10.

It was only the 3rd time this season the Panthers went to five sets, all against ICCAC opponents.  Unfortunately, they have come out on the short end of all three five-setters.

The ECC defense was strong against SWCC with a season-best 110 digs, led by Haley Forge's 24.  Gabi Damiano was next with 23, Jada Smith had 21 and Hanna Forge 17.  Haley Forge also led the squad in kills with 15.  The 26 total blocks were the highest this year, led by Yoliann DeJesus-Tejedor's 8 that included 6 assists, and Emma Rosonke's 7.  Rosonke is already in the top 5 in the ECC record book for blocks in a season.  In assists, Hanna Forge paced Ellsworth with 15 and Nuria Bravo Santos had 14.

The next match for the Panthers will be Monday, Oct. 11, when they host the Wartburg College JV.  It will be Breast Cancer Awareness Night with all proceeds from the match donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.  There will be a silent auction starting at 6:15 prior to the match.  First serve is at 7:00.