Middle Tennessee Volleyball Falls to Western Kentucky in Weekend Finale

MT Setter #16 Caroline Macander works the ball to teammates

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders volleyball team faced a tough challenge this weekend, falling to the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers in straight sets, 23-25, 17-25, 17-25. The loss marked a difficult end to a weekend that tested the Blue Raiders’ resilience as they aim to regain momentum in Conference USA play.

The match opened with a back-and-forth battle, as both teams exchanged points in a charged atmosphere. The arena was packed with local junior volleyball players, adding to the electric energy as they watched collegiate-level competition up close. Middle Tennessee showed grit in the first set, rallying from an 18-13 deficit. A timely timeout allowed the Blue Raiders to regroup and narrow the gap to 18-17. However, after a Western Kentucky timeout, the Hilltoppers regained their composure and edged out the set 25-23.

Western Kentucky came out stronger in the second set, quickly establishing a three- to five-point lead. Despite Middle Tennessee calling a timeout at 16-11 to try to shift momentum, the Hilltoppers maintained control and closed the set 25-17. The Blue Raiders struggled to find their rhythm, a noticeable dip compared to their earlier season performances, including their last win against Tennessee State in early October.

The third set began with Middle Tennessee keeping pace, trailing narrowly at 10-8. But a series of unforced errors led to a timeout called at 12-8 as the Blue Raiders fought to stay in contention. Western Kentucky extended their lead from there, finishing the set 25-17 and sealing a hard-fought victory.

Despite the loss, Middle Tennessee had bright spots on both offense and defense. Raegan Durbin led the team with a match-high 10 kills, while Michaela Dlouhá and Trinniti Stevens each added eight kills—Stevens marking a career high. Defensively, Mackenna Poole stood out with 11 digs, showcasing her skill in keeping plays alive. The Blue Raiders also out-blocked the Hilltoppers, recording five and a half blocks to Western Kentucky’s four, with Dlouhá leading that effort with three blocks.

Looking ahead, Middle Tennessee will hit the road to face the FIU Panthers in a two-match series as part of Conference USA play. The first match is scheduled for Friday, November 7, at 5:00 p.m. CT, followed by a second match on Saturday, November 8, at 12:00 p.m. Both contests will be streamed live on ESPN+.

As the Blue Raiders continue their season, they hope to channel the energy and enthusiasm from their young supporters into a stronger showing against FIU. With adjustments and renewed focus, there is optimism that Middle Tennessee can turn their fortunes around and finish the season strong.