The Air Force volleyball team achieved a 3-0 victory over Austin Peay at the Cougar Classic in Edwardsville, Illinois, on September 13. The Falcons won the match with set scores of 25-22, 25-21, and 25-18. This match marked the first time the two programs have faced each other.
With this win, Air Force improved its record to 8-1, matching the best nine-match start at the Division I level previously set by the 2023 squad.
Sophomore Alysa Walker led all players with 10 kills and contributed two service aces. Her classmate Mia Loyd recorded four aces and added 26 assists. Senior Jordan Suan had a team-high 14 digs, while senior Alex Hatchett finished with three blocks.
The Falcons overcame an early deficit in the first set, trailing by as many as seven points before rallying for a comeback win. Walker’s play was central to this turnaround, with additional contributions from seniors Ashley Bible and Hatchett. In the second set, Air Force established an early lead with aces from Loyd and kills from Bible and Bella Christensen. After several tied scores, another ace from Loyd helped break the deadlock as Air Force secured the set.
In the third set, Hatchett’s defensive work helped Air Force take control after a close start. Freshman Zoe Kirby made her collegiate debut during this period and assisted on a block with Walker. The Falcons then went on an eight-point run to build a decisive lead before closing out the match.
Air Force will return home to host Denver, Northern Colorado, and Utah Tech in the Into the Blue Invitational at Cadet East Gym between September 18 and 20. The event will also include a ceremony honoring former head coach Matt McShane during the September 19 match against Northern Colorado.
