Sioux Falls, S.D.-- Returning to the Elmen Center for homecoming weekend, the Augustana Volleyball team used a stellar performance from Senior Courtney Place to roll to a 3-0 (25-16, 25-20, 25-22) win over Minot State. Place racked up eight service aces on the evening, tying the program all-time record set more than 25 years ago (8, Michelle Ohrem; Sept. 1993). The win brings Augustana to a record of 9-14 (4-11 NSIC) on the year and drops Minot State to 11-14 (4-11 NSIC).

Place was thankful to be a part of Augustana history after the monumental night. "It means a lot to me," said Place. "This volleyball program is really great and has been great for the last 25 years. I went back there and I was really confident behind the line and my teammates had my back and it was really fun."

Set one was close with the teams trading points early. Tied at 14, Augustana came alive. A series of aces from Courtney Place helped the Vikings pull ahead and they didn't look back. The Vikings finished on an 11-2 run to take the first set 25-16.

Set two was back and forth in the beginning. A kill from Abby Benson put the Vikings up 15-10. After trading points, Augustana again pulled ahead 19-14 forcing a timeout from the Beavers. The Vikings finished strong and a kill from Avery Thorson sealed the set, 25-20.

In the third set, the Beavers jumped out to a 14-12 lead. The teams battled to a score of 19-15 Beavers, resulting in an Augustana timeout. The Vikings rallied back to tie the score at 21 on a Minot attack error. The Vikings finished strong and took the third and final set 25-22 on a kill from Sophia Terwilleger.

For the match, Augustana hit .296 to Minot's .160. The Vikings had 11 service aces for the match, which ties their season-high set against MSU Moorhead on October 12th.

Place led the Vikings in kills with 15 as she hit .364. Kaylea Ahrens had 12 digs and Avery Thorson tallied 29 assists.

Leaders for the Minot were Shelby Spuller with 15 kills and Karli Koza with 16 digs.

The Vikings continue their homestand on Saturday at 5 p.m., when they host the U-Mary Marauders. Fans who bring their October 20th football ticket will receive $5 admission. Fans who are unable to attend in person can follow live on GoAugie.com/Live.