The UIS Prairie Stars women’s volleyball team fought with energy and heart on Saturday, September 27, as they faced off against the visiting University of Indianapolis Greyhounds in their second Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) matchup of the season. Despite several competitive runs and strong teamwork, the Prairie Stars ultimately dropped the match in three sets (17–25, 20–25, 19–25).

Head Coach Laura Ulrich said the team is still finding its rhythm but praised the players’ adaptability and commitment.

“We had a lot of changes in our lineup, so we needed to be more flexible and aggressive in certain spaces,” Ulrich explained. “When we were playing really well together—being aggressive and caring—we did a great job. In the third set, I think we finally found our footing and made a run.”

Team captain and setter Erica Sledge viewed the match as part of the team’s growth process.

“It didn’t turn out the way we wanted, but I felt positive about some moments during the match,” Sledge said. “We had good stretches, and now we know what to focus on in practice. It’s still early in the season, so I’m excited to see where we go from here.”

Outside hitter McKenna Cox echoed that sentiment, highlighting the team’s focus on collaboration moving forward.

“I think we all want it,” Cox said. “It’s just about working together more as a team, instead of trying to do it ourselves.”

With the GLVC season just getting underway, Coach Ulrich remains focused on long-term goals and building a strong program identity.

“My goal for the season is to build on a legacy here at UIS volleyball and take the next step with our culture,” she said. “We want to finish as high as we can in the conference and make a real run for it. This year is about setting that foundation—showing up every match and every day for practice.”

Fans can catch the team at home when they return to the TRAC Center to face William Jewell College on October 10. Admission is free for UIS students with a valid student ID.