MANDAN - Mandan secured its first Western Dakota Association victory of the season by defeating St. Mary's in four sets, 3-1 on Sept 8 at Starion Bank Gymnasium. The Braves' service game was sharp, posting 13 aces.

The Braves had a pair of players in double figures in kills with Kennedy Keller leading the way with 13. AnnaClaire Bugbee added 11. Sierra Gustavsson was strong in the passing department, posting 38 assists. Hadley Harris was good in the back row with 33 digs. Meanwhile, St. Mary's received a good effort from a handful of players.

Cloey Kraljic contributed significantly to St. Mary's efforts with nine kills and four blocks, providing both offensive firepower and defensive stability at the net. Sophie Schlinger was a standout for St. Mary's, orchestrating the offense with 20 assists. Defensively, Sydney Kukowski anchored the team with 18 digs. Mandan improved to 1-2 in the WDA and 5-4 overall. St. Mary's dropped to 0-3 in conference play and 3-6 overall.

Looking ahead, St. Mary's will face Century, who holds a 3-0 WDA record, on September 10. Mandan will host Williston, currently 1-3 in the WDA, on the same date.