ST. PAUL – The University of Northwestern volleyball team (26-8) is heading back to the NCAA Tournament, as the Eagles defeated the University of Minnesota-Morris (21-12), 3-1, in the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) Tournament Championship game Saturday night inside the Ericksen Center. It is the fourth-straight year UNW has received the league's automatic bid to the postseason and sixth-consecutive trip to the tournament for Northwestern. 

Lindsey Peterson (Sheffield, Iowa/West Fork) had a remarkable conference tournament, as the sophomore was named the UMAC Tournament's Most Valuable Player. The outside hitter turned in a 20 kill and 18 dig performance en route to garnering the honor. She hit .298 in the match. Faith Vander Galien (Chanhassen, Minn./Southwest Christian) followed up her strong semifinal showing with another impressive match, as the senior middle hitter slammed 11 kills – compiling a .368 hitting percentage – and posted six blocks. Sister Abby Vander Galien (Chanhassen, Minn./Southwest Christian) recorded 19 digs to lead the defense. Jackie Foster (Charles City, Iowa/Charles City) racked up 17 digs, while Freya Hanson (Otsego, Minn./St. Michael-Albertville) added 13.

The Eagles continued their strong play at the net, holding an 11-5 advantage in total blocks.

The Eagles will find out their draw on Monday morning during the NCAA Selection Show, which is slated to begin at 10 a.m. Fans can stay tuned to www.unweagles.com for additional updates next week.