No. 7 Trojans Powers Past Blue Dragons with Sweep

HUTCHINSON, Kan. - The No. 7 Trojans volleyball went on the road Wednesday (Sept. 10) and delivered a statement victory, sweeping Hutchinson in three straight sets in the Hutchinson Sports Arena. The Trojans controlled the match from start to finish, using balanced offense and strong defense to secure the win.

Leading the attack was Karlotta Kattai, who powered down a team-high 13 kills and finished with 17 points, setting the tone with her aggressive swings on the outside. She was supported by a deep offensive cast, as Ella Dridi added six kills to go along with a match-best 17 digs, while Chiara Binda and Isadora Carrareto anchored the middle with a combined 11 kills and a presence at the net that disrupted Hutchinson's rhythm.

Running the offense was Amanda Caputi, who distributed 30 assists while also chipping in two aces and steadying the Trojans' transition game. Her ability to spread the ball to multiple attackers made it tough for Hutch's defense to catch up. Behind the service line, Colby held a decisive edge, finishing with 13 aces compared to just five from the Blue Dragons. Seven different Trojans registered at least one ace, highlighting the depth and versatility of the lineup.

Defensively, Colby proved just as sharp. Dridi anchored the back row with her 17 digs, while Silvia Lopez Cuesta and Anita Ferri kept Hutchinson's attackers in check. At the net, Binda, Carrareto, and Kattai all contributed to the defense, notching a solo block each that limited the Blue Dragons' scoring opportunities.

Colby finished the match with 36 kills to Hutchinson's 24, hitting .170 as a team while holding the Blue Dragons to just .031. Kattai led all players with 13 kills and 17 points, notching a trio of aces as well. Dridi added 6 kills and 17 digs for a strong all-around effort. Caputi ran the offense with 30 assists and chipped in two aces, while Lena Mihaljica had three service aces as well. Binda (7 kills, 10 points) and Carrareto (4 kills, 6.5 points) gave Colby valuable production in the middle.

The Trojans now turn their attention to a challenging weekend ahead, as they travel to Sterling, CO for the Northeastern Tournament. Colby is slated to face four opponents, including two nationally ranked programs.