ROCK ISLAND -- The Augustana Vikings women's volleyball team closed the 2025 season with a 14-15 overall record and a 3-5 mark in CCIW play, earning a sixth-place conference finish behind a veteran roster led by a seven-member senior class.Â
Augustana opened the year by winning two of its first three matches before earning victories over Illinois Tech and MSOE during the Viking Invitational. The Vikings found their stride in late September, winning six of seven matches, including sweeps of Ripon, Wisconsin Lutheran and Monmouth. A five-set victory over Aurora highlighted the stretch, while a 3-1 win over Luther helped Augustana post a strong stretch of home success at the Carver Center.
Conference play featured several memorable moments as the Vikings earned victories over Elmhurst, North Central and North Park. Augustana swept Elmhurst at the Carver Center before knocking off North Central on the road in four sets. The Vikings later closed out October with a thrilling five-set victory over North Park at home. Augustana concluded the regular season by defeating both Loras and Grinnell on the final day of the Pumpkin Bash.
The Vikings were guided offensively by senior Mallory Coley, who was named the team's Offensive Player of the Year after producing 172 kills on the season. Leah Rizzo earned Most Valuable Player honors after leading the team with 522 assists and 31 service aces while also adding 204 digs. Sophomore Katelyn Turley anchored the defense and was named Defensive Player of the Year after finishing with 329 digs, while Abby Kirchner earned Most Improved Player recognition after posting 276 assists and 30 service aces. Grace Gustafson was honored with the CCIW RESPECT Award for her leadership and sportsmanship.
Emily Schipper once again paced the Viking attack statistically, finishing the season with 437 kills and 3.67 kills per set while adding 309 digs and 47 total blocks. Kylie Collachia directed the offense with 735 assists and 6.74 assists per set, while Ashley Awbrey led the team defensively with 432 digs and a team-best 38 service aces. As a team, the Vikings recorded 1,298 kills, 1,169 assists and 1,874 digs across 119 sets during the 2025 campaign.
In addition, three Vikings were named to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team, as Gustafson, Lanah Queckboerner and Katelyn Turley were recognized for their success in the classroom and on the court.
For a complete look at the updated Augustana women's volleyball record book, click HERE. The 2026 schedule can be found HERE.