Bemidji State University (0-2, 0-0 NSIC) faced two challenging matches at the Eckerd Classic, falling in five sets to Ohio Dominican (1-0, 0-0 G-MAC) and in four sets to Maryville University (1-1, 0-0 GLVC) at McArthur Center in St. Petersburg, Fla.

In the first match against Ohio Dominican, Bemidji State started strong, taking a commanding 3-0 lead in the first set with two service aces from Madison Tripp. Ava Athman and Kylie Struble contributed crucial kills, extending the advantage to 10-2. Ella Kratochvil sealed the set with a decisive kill, leading to a dominant 25-12 win. The second set saw the Beavers maintain momentum, with Tripp serving an ace and Riese following with a kill to establish a 2-0 advantage. Despite Ohio Dominican’s efforts, Bemidji State clinched the set 25-21, highlighted by Athman’s final kill.

The third set was competitive, with both teams exchanging points. Katrina Thompson’s assists were critical, notably for Nevaeh Carlson and Athman. However, Ohio Dominican managed to secure a 25-21 victory. The fourth set opened with Bemidji State battling to keep pace, but a 5-0 run by Ohio Dominican, highlighted by kills from Ashley Aselage and Jenna Peters, led to a 25-19 defeat for the Beavers. In the decisive fifth set, Ohio Dominican took an early 7-0 lead, but Bemidji State rallied with a 4-0 run, ultimately falling 15-9.

Tripp posted a team-high 16 assists and added three service aces. Dunham contributed significantly with six total blocks and seven kills. Grace Hoffard was efficient offensively, finishing with five kills on seven attempts for a .714 hitting percentage, while Thompson supported with 14 assists.

In the second match against Maryville, Bemidji State again took an early lead, with a strong kill from Riese set up by Tripp. However, Maryville responded with a series of points, ultimately sealing the first set 25-20 despite a late rally from the Beavers. The second set saw Bemidji State capitalize on key plays, including a service ace by Karley Dunham, clinching the set 25-22 with Riese’s final point.

The third set opened with Maryville gaining an early lead, and despite Bemidji State’s efforts to keep pace, the Saints sealed a 25-19 victory. In the fourth set, Maryville took control early and maintained their advantage, ultimately winning 25-14.

Struble led the defensive effort with 16 digs and five assists. Athman was a key offensive force with 12 kills and 14 digs. Tripp facilitated the offense with 18 assists and eight digs, while Dunham added seven kills and a service ace.

Bemidji State now holds an overall record of 0-2. Looking ahead, they will face Puerto Rico-Mayaguez and Eckerd College for day two of the Eckerd Classic on Saturday, Sept. 6, with first serve set for 12 p.m.