Parkville, Mo. - The Central Methodist volleyball program saw its Heart tournament run come to an end in the championship match, falling to No. 1 Park University in straight sets; 25-14, 25-19, 25-16 Monday night in Parkville, Mo.

Despite finishing as the tournament runner-up, the Eagles have clinched an automatic berth into the NAIA National tournament in April, and currently hold an overall record of 13-5. Park improves to 19-1 overall.

Callie Henson led the Eagles' offense with nine kills, while both Delaney Miller and Grace Stumbaugh each collected seven. Elise Hardesty-Irvin dished out a team-high 20 assists. Teamate Marina Alonso joined Hardesty-Irvin in double-digit assists, finishing the evening with 10.

On the defensive side, Krystal Brauner recorded 13 digs, followed by Shea Luby with seven and Annabelle Maassen with six.

The Pirates were extremely efficient on the offense side of the net, as they recorded a .394 hitting percentage, including 47 kills on 94 swings. The duo of Nada and Noura Meawad combined for 25 kills and nearly a .350 hitting percentage.

Central will now prepare for the national tournament in April, as they return to non-conference action against Indiana Wesleyan and Columbia College in a triangular Sunday, March 14 in Columbia, Mo.

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