Manhattan, Kan. - The Stephens College Stars traveled to the campus of Manhattan Christian College last weekend to open their 2023 campaign under first-year Head Coach Trevor Koelling. The Stars played four matches as part of the Manhattan Christian Tournament.

Stephens has a very young roster with only two seniors and 11 freshman. With three wins in their first four matches, the Stars are off to their best start in program history since the 2014 season. Further, in the 2022 season, Stephens lost to both Cottey College and Manhattan Christian in the same tournament. 

Game Results:

• Stephens defeated Sterling College, 3-2 (29-27, 25-19, 23-25, 22-25, 15-11)
• Stephens lost to Central Christian, 2-3 (25-17, 25-19, 16-25, 25-27, 12-15)
• Stephens defeated Cottey College, 3-0 (25-18, 25-17, 25-17)
• Stephens defeated Manhattan Christian College, 3-1 (25-23, 18-25, 25-16, 25-21)

Statistical Leaders:

• Isabelle Benson: 57 digs, 31 kills, eight service aces, four blocks
• Jamie Russell: 16 kills
• Lena Hunziker: 46 kills, 45 digs, six blocks
• Genevieve Nickelson: 92 digs, 20 assists, seven service aces
• Avery Hays: 84 assists, 50 digs, eight kills, six service aces
• Emma Whitson: 47 assists, 20 digs, seven service aces

The Stars return to action on Wednesday, August 30th, for a home contest against the College of the Ozarks. First serve is set for 7:00pm inside Silverthorne Arena.