The Windy City got a little windier Tuesday when the NIU volleyball team blew away Northeastern Illinois University, 15-5, 15-2, 15-9.

The Huskies’ three-game sweep marks four straight victories for NIU (6-1) and puts Northeastern at 1-3 for the season.

“It was a good match,” NIU head volleyball coach Pete Waite said. “We got everyone in and got some experience in for the new players.

“Most of the bench played during the second and third games and they played real steady ball,” Waite added.

In fact, the NIU bench played a large role in Tuesday’s victory. With every NIU player recording playing time, Michele Detry, Kori Schauer, Joyce Book, and Andrea Baker each contributed hits in the kill chart.

Their efforts were led by junior Wendy Mason who took charge of the Huskies’ offensive attack with eight kills and no errors in thirteen attempts for a .613 ledger. Sophomore and team captain Becky Ramsey followed with five kills, one error, and eight attempts for a .500 average while both newcomer Danielle Gerenz and sophomore Amy Foulke contributed seven kills each.

The Golden Eagles, on the other hand, had only 14 kills to NIU’s 42. Despite the absence of a real challenge, the Huskies had no trouble maintaining their concentration, Waite said.

“I think they’re all real intent on making it a good year,” Waite said. “So, they know that every game can be used to improve yourself.”

Sophomore Nikki Kozak had a team best nine digs to lead the Huskie defense while setter Shelby Snyder lent eight digs to her 28 assists.

Kozak’s performance follows a week-long string of strong play for the 5-7 outside hitter. For her efforts, Kozak was recently named the North Star Conference Player-of-the-Week.

“Nikki’s going to have a strong year,” Waite said. “And after shoulder surgery this summer, we’re thrilled with the progress she’s made and the amount of confidence she has already gained.”

Snyder’s efforts have also been recognized—at least on paper as she leads the NSC stats in average assists with 12.91 apg.

With conference play still weeks away, NIU begins preparation for the Huskie Invitational to be held Friday and Saturday at Chick Evans Field House.