Kansas City Kansas Community College faced a challenging tournament at the Heartland Community College Invitational in Normal, Ill., experiencing three tough matches against ranked opponents.

In their first match, KCKCC took on No. 6 Parkland College and fell in four sets, 25-19, 24-26, 25-23, 25-18. Despite a solid defensive effort highlighted by 88 digs, the Cobras managed a .195 hitting percentage, which proved insufficient against Parkland's balanced attack. Valentina Rolando led the team with 16.5 points, contributing 14 kills and 14 digs. Sanoma Hunter made a significant impact with 10 kills and a .455 hitting percentage, along with six total blocks. Veronica Rolando added depth with 27 assists, 19 digs and four aces, while Ava Rann excelled defensively, recording a team-high 20 digs.

In their second match, KCKCC was swept by No. 3 Heartland Community College, losing in straight sets 25-23, 25-20, 25-19. The team recorded 80 digs and a total of 7.0 team blocks, but could not overcome the Hawks' efficient attack, which boasted a .238 hitting percentage. Tatianna Murray led the way with 18 assists, eight kills, and 11 digs. Valentina Rolando contributed with 10 kills at a .250 hitting percentage, and Veronica Rolando tallied 15 digs. Briazia Osborne supported the offense with 14 assists and matched that with 11 digs.

In their final match of the tournament, KCKCC faced No. 4 Kirkwood Community College and lost 21-25, 25-20, 25-21, 25-18. KCKCC achieved 49 kills and 7 service aces, but Kirkwood's .257 hitting percentage helped them secure the win. Mayah Pridgett stood out with 13 kills and seven digs, while Valentina Rolando led defensively with 20 digs and contributed eight kills. Rann showcased her defensive skills with 16 digs, and Veronica Rolando played a pivotal role in the offense with 23 assists and two service aces.

The next match for the KCKCC volleyball team is Oct.15 as they head to Overland Park, Kan. to take on conference rival, Johnson County Community College.