Northwestern to Play for the NAIA Women's Volleyball National Championship on Tuesday

(Sioux City, Iowa) - In the 2025 NAIA Women's Volleyball National Semifinal Round, the Northwestern Red Raiders defeated the Concordia (Neb.) Bulldogs 3-0 (25-23, 25-13,25-9).

The Red Raiders edged out a close first set, despite falling behind 19-13; they came back to win 25-23. NWC increased their intensity, decisively winning 25-13. Their attack efficiency soared to .324, with standout performances from Stella Winterfeld and Zavyr Metzger.  The final set saw Northwestern continue to carry its momentum with a 25-9 victory.

Winterfeld led the Red Raiders with 14 kills. Metzger, Sidney Oostra, and Rylie Franken all followed with six kills apiece. Metzger also contributed 6 blocks on the night. Liv Reitsma and Nyah Potthoff showcased their skills with 16 and 13 assists, respectively. Maggie Bloom led NWC's back line with 13 digs. Reitsma and Potthoff followed behind with 12 apiece to complete a double-double for the setting duo.

For the Bulldogs, senior outside, Ashley Keck, was a standout performer, leading the team with 13 kills. Ella Waters, along with Kya Scott, recorded six kills each. Savannah Shelburne directed the offense with 15 assists on the night. The Concordia backcourt was anchored by Keck, along with Emma Brueggermann, who each tallied nine digs on the night. 

With the loss, Concordia is eliminated from Championship play.

Northwestern, with the win, moves onto the Championship match for the second time in program history to face a familiar foe in Indiana Wesleyan for a shot at its first title. The Red Raiders return to action Tuesday, December 9, at 7 p.m. CT, taking on the Indiana Wesleyan Wildcats.