MISHAWAKA, Ind. – In a nail-biting Crossroads League showdown, the Spring Arbor University volleyball team fell just short against the Bethel Pilots, succumbing 3-2 in a fiercely contested five-set battle on Wednesday night in Mishawaka, Indiana.

The key moment came in the final set when both teams were tied at 8-8. The Pilots then surged ahead to secure the set and the match 15-8. This loss brings the Cougars' record to 9-7 overall with a 3-4 standing in the league.

The Cougars started off strong, clinching the first set with a tight 26-24 victory but stumbled in the second, losing 22-25. They roared back with an impressive 25-12 win in the third set, but couldn't maintain the momentum, dropping the fourth 20-25 and the decisive fifth set 8-15.

Top performers for Spring Arbor included Isabelle Kirkendall, who led with 19 kills, followed closely by Kendall Bollenbacher with 15. Keely Hinzman made significant contributions with 8 kills and also registered 4 blocks alongside Julia Mitchell and Maiya Clark who had 3. The defensive effort was spearheaded by Kirstyn Throop, who racked up 30 digs. Camy Wedge not only delivered 28 assists but also added 4 aces to her name. Gabby Bryja contributed with another 19 assists and 12 digs.

Looking forward, the Cougars aim to regroup as they face No. 16 Mount Vernon Nazarene University at the McDonald Athletic Center on Saturday, Sept. 28.