The Northern Illinois University Huskies faced the University of Rhode Island Rams and Harvard University Crimson on the first day of the Art Carmichael Invitational. The Huskies battled hard in both matches, but ultimately fell to both teams. Against Rhode Island, Ava Grevengoed and Sophie Hurt each recorded double-doubles, while Charli Atiemo led the team with service aces. Head coach Sondra D’Amore praised the team’s competitive spirit but highlighted the need for better execution in crucial moments.
In the game against Rhode Island, the Huskies won the first set but eventually lost in a five-set match. The second game against Harvard was also a close contest, with the Huskies falling in four sets. Despite the losses, standout performances came from players like Atiemo, Grevengoed, and Nikolette Nedic.
The Huskies showed resilience and fought hard in both matches, with Atiemo leading in kills and the team achieving their second-highest hitting percentage of the season against Harvard. Several players set career-bests, including Sarah Lezon and Kylie Schulze. The team now looks ahead to their next match against Stony Brook University on September 14 at 11 a.m. CT to conclude the Art Carmichael Invitational.
The Huskies have shown determination and skill in their recent matches, and they will be looking to carry that momentum forward in their upcoming games.
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Photo credit niuhuskies.com
