Raiders Sweep Centralia; Punch Ticket to NWAC Playoffs

With Friday night's sweep of Centralia, the Raiders qualified for a trip to the NWAC post season, under first year head coach Valerie Koch.  The Raiders made easy work of the Trailblazers, beating them in 3 sets; 25-17, 25-18, 25-18. 

The win was a balanced team effort by the Raiders.  Abby Draghici led the way with 9 kills (.214 hitting percentage), 16 digs, and 2 block assists; Addie Downs had 8 kills (.182), 15 assists, 12 digs, and 5 blocks (2 solo, and 3 assists); Sway Leia also had 8 kills (.261) and 7 digs; Brea Walker had 3 kills (.231), 12 assists, and 9 digs; and, Hollie Haataia had 3 kills and 4 block assists.  Downs and Draghici continue to dominate the NWAC on the net, ranking 1^st and 2^nd in total blocks (Downs – 102, Draghici – 97).

In the West, Highline and Lower Columbia have locked up the top two playoff spots.  The Raiders have secured either 3^rd or 4^th in the standings, depending on how Tacoma does in their two remaining matches.  The Titans play Lower Columbia on Wednesday, and close out league play on Friday against Centralia.  The Raiders close out the season on Friday, when they host Highline, starting at 6:30 pm.

This year's trip marks a program record seventh straight year (not including the 2020 COVID season) the Raiders have qualified for the NWAC playoffs.

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