Braxton Gregory
Sports Editor
Idaho State’s volleyball team is beginning to show the results of persistence and development as the Big Sky Conference season progresses.
The Bengals are a young roster still building cohesion and are gradually translating practice effort into competitive performance on the court.
Idaho State enters the latter portion of the season with a 7–15 overall record and a 3–7 mark in conference play. While the team has faced challenges, including tough losses early in the season, the Bengals have demonstrated resilience and the ability to compete statistically with conference opponents.
The team has totaled 1,019 kills on 3,058 attempts for a .183 hitting percentage, averaging 12 kills and 11.2 assists per set. Idaho State also averages 1.3 aces per set. On defense, the Bengals have recorded 1,276 digs and 222 total blocks, resulting in 2.6 blocks per set, compared to 2.0 for their opponents. These numbers reflect a team capable of producing in multiple areas, even as younger players gain experience at the collegiate level.
Individual contributions have played a key role in Idaho State’s competitiveness. Marci Bell leads the team with 246.5 total points and a .280 hitting percentage, providing a consistent scoring presence. Jaydin Watts has added 215.5 points with a .370 hitting percentage. Abby McClain, Meline Shulikov, and Nora Waddoups have also contributed across multiple offensive categories, with Waddoups leading the team in total attacks at 615.
Defensively, the Bengals have been anchored by Jenna Werbelow, who has recorded 277 digs and a .946 dig efficiency. Shulikov and Kadence Marsh have provided reliable support in the back row, while Bell leads the team in total blocks with 108, assisted by Claudia Antcliff and Shulikov. These efforts reflect a roster capable of making plays at both the net and in the backcourt.
Recent victories have highlighted the progress of the young team. After a 3-0 win over Eastern Washington, Outside Hitter Annelie Wilson said, “Our passing has developed and put us in a really good spot to keep pressure on the other teams.”
The Bengals also recorded a 3-1 win over the University of Idaho Vandals, marking important milestones in the season. Head coach Sean Carter said, “Really excited — our girls have really been needing to get the feeling of winning, regardless of how you get it. Really happy.”
Beyond the scoreboard, the Bengals’ season has been defined by growth and determination. Players have been learning how to finish points, communicate effectively, and maintain focus under pressure. Those lessons are particularly valuable for a roster composed primarily of first-year and underclass players, providing a foundation for sustained competitiveness in the Big Sky Conference.
The team’s development is evident in both individual and collective performance. Balanced offensive contributions and defensive consistency demonstrate that Idaho State is gaining the experience necessary to convert effort into results. While wins have been limited, each match has provided learning opportunities, and the young roster appears poised to continue improving.
Fans have noticed the commitment and resilience of the Bengals. “So awesome and inspiring to see these young women battle!” said Roxanna Scott, a longtime supporter.
