On August 30, 2026, in the heart of Des Moines, IA, the spirited volleyball teams of South Dakota and DePaul faced off in a thrilling match that kept spectators at the edge of their seats. With a notable attendance of 113, fans witnessed a clash that highlighted the gritty determination of both squads, particularly focusing on South Dakota’s efforts in the competition.
Despite a commendable performance, South Dakota fell to DePaul with a close final score of 3-1. However, the statistics showcase a story of resilience and skill from the South Dakota team, especially through standout performances like that of Lauren Medeck, who dazzled with 17 kills — the most from her team — asserting her dominance on the court.
DePaul might have secured the win with set scores of 25-21, 20-25, 25-22, and 25-22, but South Dakota showcased a higher total point count of 70 compared to DePaul’s 65 and also led in total kills with 57 over DePaul’s 49. Such statistics underscore the fierce competitive nature of the match.
South Dakota: A Powerhouse in Volleyball
South Dakota’s contributions to college volleyball continue to be noteworthy, with athletes like Coach’s Email at the helm, guiding these promising athletes. The team’s strength lies not just in individual brilliance but also in their cohesive play.

Audrey Nelson, one of South Dakota’s key players.
The top performers from South Dakota this match included not only Lauren Medeck but also Amanda Loschen, who dominated in blocks, managing five throughout the game. Amanda Loschen proved pivotal in slowing down DePaul’s offensive strides, a true testament to her defensive capabilities.
Game Highlights and Analysis
DePaul’s Kendall Timme showcased an impressive performance, leading her team with 18 kills. In contrast, South Dakota’s hitting percentage of .190 compared to DePaul’s .225 reflected the match’s competitive dynamics. Coach’s Email would surely analyze these statistics to strategize future play.
A noteworthy mention goes to Avery Van Hook, who clocked in an outstanding 45 assists, facilitating numerous scoring opportunities for South Dakota. Such individual records highlight the exceptional talent hailing from South Dakota, contributing significantly to the overall team dynamics.
- Top Scorer: Lauren Medeck (17 kills)
- Most Blocks: Amanda Loschen (5 blocks)
- Top Assist: Avery Van Hook (45 assists)
Looking Ahead: South Dakota’s Volleyball Future
South Dakota, with a record standing at 2-1 post-match, displays a promising trajectory as they advance in the season. The spirit and skill shown by the team signify a robust foundation for upcoming games, especially within the Summit League where they hold strong potential.
Volleyball enthusiasts and supporters remain optimistic as South Dakota continues to cultivate a culture of success and sports excellence. By nurturing homegrown talents and leveraging strategic coaching, South Dakota is set to remain a formidable force in college volleyball.
The next few matches will be crucial for setting the pace in the Summit League, where South Dakota aims to make their mark and demonstrate their prowess on a broader stage.
Readers interested in the thrilling world of South Dakota volleyball can follow updates and player highlights through local sports outlets and the university’s dedicated sports news portal. Stay connected with the game and continue cheering for our South Dakota athletes as they rise to new heights in collegiate sports.