WINONA, Minn. – The Winona State University volleyball team celebrated Senior Day today, as they wrapped up the 2022 season with a loss to No. 7 Southwest Minnesota State University.

WSU left it all out on the court for the final match of their season as they played the No. 7 team in the nation, SMSU, to a hard-fought three sets. The Mustangs prevailed 25-22, 25-23, and 25-16.

In a back-and-forth battle in the opening set, Southwest Minnesota State gained a late advantage at 22-17 and looked to close the door. The Warriors battled back, rattling off four consecutive points to get within one, but SMSU maintained their lead and took the opening frame 25-22.

Winona State took control of the second set immediately, winning the first three points and holding a lead throughout the set. After being up 20-15, WSU saw their lead shorten as the Mustangs got within one at 20-19. Winona State answered right back and held their lead, but SMSU won the set's final four points to take the 2-0 lead.

Southwest Minnesota State used runs in the middle and end of the third set to pick up the road sweep in front of the loud Warrior Faithful.

Madison Larson, a Second Team All-NSIC honoree, led Winona State with 13 kills. Sidney Paulson added nine, and three others added at least four for WSU.

Jaci Winchell wrapped up her impressive freshman campaign with 35 assists in the three sets to facilitate the Warrior attack. Senior Casey Volkmann led the WSU back row, collecting 15 digs, while Paulson added 14 digs to record a double-double.

After the match, the Warriors honored their three seniors: Kami Knutsen, Mikenna Joerger, and Casey Volkmann for their dedication to the WSU volleyball program.

Winona State concludes the 2022 campaign with a 12-15 overall record and 8-12 record within the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference.

For the most up to date news in Warrior Athletics, please visit: www.WINONASTATEWARRIORS.com and @WinonaStateATH.
About Winona State University Athletics: 

The Winona State University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, as an integral part of the educational mission of the institution, is committed to offering opportunities to experience academic and athletic excellence for our student-athletes through two simple words: Graduate Champions.  

Fourteen Warrior programs compete at the NCAA Division II level within the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).