By Cort Reynolds

BLUFFTON – The Bluffton Pirate volleyball team swept visiting Northwest Conference rival Lima Central Catholic Thursday, September 26.

The Pirates won for the 13th time in 15 matches. 

The Pirates improved to 14-3 overall and 3-1 in NWC action after the 25-13, 25-11, 25-20 win. LCC fell to 2-11 overall and 1-3 in NWC play after the loss.

First-place Crestview is 13-2 overall and 6-0 in the NWC.

Ayla Grandey, Kendall Stackhouse and Karlie Lora each knocked down nine kills to pace the balanced Bluffton hitting attack. Libby Hocanson smacked six kills and served three aces. 

Lora came up with three blocks. Lainey Grandey added a block plus she served three aces.

Setter Gracie Yarnell passed out 35 assists.

Libero Avery Talavinia mustered 20 digs, and Lora added a dozen digs.

The Pirates also swept the JV match, 2-0. 

The Pirate spikers host non-league Patrick Henry (8-8) Monday Sept. 30. Bluffton resumes league play in a key match at Lincolnview Tuesday, October 1, then hosts Spencerville (4-11, 1-3 NWC) October 3.

The Pirates are tied with Lincolnview (11-4) in league play for second place at 3-1.