THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. – Cal Lutheran women's volleyball (6-1, 0-0 SCIAC) continued its strong start to the season with a true team effort, securing a three-set victory over UC Santa Cruz (6-3, 0-0) Saturday night inside Gilbert Arena.

The Regals opened the match in rhythm and rode their momentum to a 25-17 first-set win, never allowing the Banana Slugs to settle into their offense.

In the second set, the Regals carried over their momentum, starting with a quick 3-0 burst. It was their overall efficiency that catapulted this set, as the Banana Slugs had more attack attempts, but Cal Lutheran's hitting percentage proved decisive, finishing at .351 compared to UC Santa Cruz's .125.

The third set closed 25-20, sealing the sweep. Sophomores Kaylee Clayton and Kennedy Smith, along with Tarin Rueckert, combined for 23 kills to power the Regals' offense and extend their home dominance.

Historically, Cal Lutheran has controlled this matchup, holding an 11-1 home record against UC Santa Cruz, with the Banana Slugs claiming only one win in Thousand Oaks.

Despite UC Santa Cruz entering fresh off an impressive win over previously undefeated Redlands, Cal Lutheran's steady attack and defensive presence kept the visitors chasing throughout the match.

Coach Kellee Roesel reflected on what hosting the Cal Lu Fornia Invitational means to the team:

"Well, I have to give credit to my angel husband who thought of the name. I think it's the best name of any tournament in the nation, so much so that our water polo teams and men's volleyball team use it. The kids love playing at home in front of the crowd. I thought the crowd was live tonight for sure; they just relish in it. A bunch of young kids that work hard in the gym, and they were ready to showcase it. I thought they balled out."

With the victory, the Regals improved to 7-1 on the year.