Washburn volleyball suffered their first season loss to Fort Hays after sweeping Nebraska-Kearney.

For the first time since 2013, the Ichabods beat No. 14 UNK in Lee Arena on Sept. 25, taking the win 3-0 (25-23, 26-24, 25-19). This would be the first nationally-ranked win for the Ichabods this fall.

The loss to FHSU followed on Sept. 26. when Washburn lost 3-0 (27-25, 28-26, 27-25).

“Recovering from a loss is nothing more than establishing what you think were the reasons and then going about fixing the problem. But, with players, they have to get their minds right,” said Coach Chris Herron.

The knockout loss bumped the Ichabods to the No. 12 spot from last week’s seventh ranking in the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Top 25 Poll of the week.

“Some losses are easier to deal with than others. Mostly, it comes down to how quickly each player can get past it and move on,” Herron said.

Key players in the game included Leanna Willer, leading with 17 kills and 11 digs. Sarah Vicory had 10 kills and two blocks. Alyssa Carney had 20 digs, Korie Thompson with 15 and Liz Powell adding 15 and giving 43 assists.

As junior libero, Carney was named MIAA Volleyball Specialist of the Week on Monday by the league office.

Carney transferred from Wichita State in 2013 to play for the Ichabods. She played in 31 games, playing 100 sets in the 2014 season. As an all-MIAA honorable mention, she has been libero for her second season now.

“Alyssa has been playing great as of late. Always happy when one of our players is awarded this honor!” Herron said.

Carney was also named the Topeka Hy-Vee player of the week.

The Ichabods will be back in action on Friday, Oct. 2 in Bolivar, Mo. to play the Southwest Baptist University Bearcats at 7 p.m. Play will continue Oct. 3 in Joplin, Mo. against the Missouri Southern State Univesity Lionbackers at 1 p.m. and again at 3 p.m. vs. the University of Arkansas at Monticello.

The Ichabods will return home over Washburn’s fall break on Oct. 6 to compete against long-term rival Emporia State for the second time at 7 p.m.