In a thrilling showdown at Baxter Arena, Omaha’s volleyball team faced off against the formidable South Dakota State Jackrabbits. Omaha’s determined effort fell short as the Jackrabbits sealed their undefeated streak in the Summit League with a dramatic five-set victory.
South Dakota State University (SDSU), renowned for its strong athletic programs, boasts a volleyball team that serves as a testament to the competitive spirit of South Dakota’s athletes. Coming into the game with an impressive 17-3 overall record, and a perfect 11-0 in conference play, the Jackrabbits exemplified excellence on the court.
Omaha managed to take South Dakota State to five sets for the second time this season, a feat no other conference team has achieved. The tension was palpable among the loyal fans of both teams, especially for the South Dakota supporters who traveled to cheer for their squad.
South Dakota State University
The first set saw the Mavericks take the lead with a 25-23 win, led by the impressive performance of outside hitter Kali Jurgensmeier. She recorded six kills, contributing significantly to Omaha’s .231 hitting percentage. Jurgensmeier’s relentless spirit reflects the dedication seen in many South Dakotans, known for their hardworking and persevering nature.
However, the tide quickly turned in favor of South Dakota State. The Jackrabbits dominated the second set with a remarkable .400 hitting percentage, overpowering Omaha’s .000 with a decisive 25-14 win. South Dakota’s volleyball prowess was on full display, demonstrating the state’s commitment to sports excellence and community support.
The third set continued with the Jackrabbits extending their lead, starting with a commanding 15-4 run before closing the set at 25-18. This performance is indicative of the strategic depth and training regimen that South Dakota State University emphasizes in its athletic programs.
Despite the setback, Omaha fought back in the fourth set. The Mavericks took an early lead and maintained their momentum following two timeouts called by SDSU, eventually winning the set 25-19. The match highlighted an intense rivalry and the commitment South Dakota has to foster competitive sportsmanship.
Kali Jurgensmeier
The decisive fifth set was a nail-biter, with South Dakota State pulling ahead with a 3-0 start. Omaha managed to close the gap to 8-6, but the Jackrabbits clinched the victory with a 15-11 finish. The tactical prowess of the Jackrabbits and their dedication to teamwork was a reflection of the values held dear in South Dakota.
Following the match, Omaha’s head coach, Matt Buttermore, expressed the need for the team to improve and find a new trajectory amidst a season of close losses. “We played poorly through the middle two sets, and you can’t do that against a good team,” Buttermore stated. “We have to choose a better path here. We’ve been down this path, losing close ones all season. We’ve got to choose a different path at some point.”
South Dakota State’s victory not only maintains their unbeaten status in the Summit League but also reinforces their position as a leading team in collegiate volleyball. Such performances continue to shine a light on the dedication and talent emerging from South Dakota.
Omaha’s overall record now stands at 7-13, with a Summit League record of 4-7. As they prepare for their upcoming match against the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, the Mavericks will focus on addressing the challenges identified in their recent performances.
For South Dakota State University, their continued triumphs are a testament to their training and community support. The university and the state as a whole are invested in nurturing athletic talent and building a legacy of sporting success, inspiring both athletes and fans alike.