ARCATA, Calif. – In their California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) conference opener, the Cal Poly Humboldt Lumberjacks (4-5, 0-1 CCAA) were edged out by Cal State Dominguez Hills (4-5, 1-0 CCAA) in four hard-fought sets on Thursday night at Lumberjack Arena. Despite a determined effort in front of 253 fans, the 'Jacks fell by scores of 20-25, 21-25, 25-15, and 21-25.

The Lumberjacks saw standout performances, notably from Awelina Fakalata, who led the offense with a game-high 20 kills while contributing 15 digs and 3 blocks. Graysen Trupp added 10 kills, while Madyn Cervellera chipped in with 7. Kyra Slavik was instrumental in setting up the attack, dishing out 31 assists. Defensively, Sophia Spoja tallied 22 digs, and Mackenzie Gilchrist recorded 20, anchoring the back row.

Cal Poly Humboldt struggled with consistency throughout the match, hitting .107 as a team, compared to the Toros' .120. Set three saw the Lumberjacks find their groove, hitting .186 and taking control with a 25-15 victory to extend the match. However, the Toros responded and proved to be slightly more consistent in set four to seal the match.

Cal State Dominguez Hills was paced by Camryn Perdue, who notched 11 kills, while Ava Hurry and Fallon Freeman each added 8. Bailey Fuches directed the offense with 27 assists and 14 digs, while libero Nina Robles led the Toros with 19 digs.

Cal Poly Humboldt outperformed the Toros in digs (89-75) and kills (46-44), but Cal State Dominguez Hills' aggressive serving, which resulted in 9 aces, and a strong blocking presence with 11 team blocks, made the difference. 

Looking Ahead
Cal Poly Humboldt will host No. 14 Cal State Los Angeles this Saturday (Sept. 21) in Lumberjack Arena for another CCAA matchup. First serve is set for 1:00 PM. For more information on Cal Poly Humboldt Volleyball, please visit humboldtathletics.com, download our mobile app, and follow us on all social media platforms.

Free Regular Season Home Matches in Lumberjack Arena
Thanks to a sponsorship from Mortages with Oceana, Cal Poly Humboldt will have free admission to all 2024 regular-season home matches this fall.