Weekend Sweep: Cards Dominate the Cardinal Classic

The Louisville Cardinals wasted no time reminding everyone why they’re one of the top programs in the country. Hosting the Cardinal Classic at L&N Federal Credit Union Arena, the Cards rolled through the weekend with a perfect 3–0 record, sweeping Auburn, Morehead State, and St. John’s without dropping a single set.

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From start to finish, Louisville looked sharp, balanced, and locked in. Sophomore outside hitter Payton Petersen was the steady force on the pins, leading the Cards in kills while swinging at an impressive .373 clip. Match after match, her consistency gave Louisville a reliable offensive punch whenever they needed it.

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In the middle, Cara Cresse showed exactly why veteran leadership matters. The fifth-year senior tallied 19 kills across the weekend while hitting .395, proving to be both a go-to scorer and a calming presence at the net.

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It wasn’t just the veterans making noise. Freshman defensive specialist Hannah Kenny had a breakout performance from the service line, firing in 5 aces against just 3 errors and leading the team with 43 total serves. That kind of pressure kept opponents off balance and gave Louisville a huge edge in the serve-and-pass game.

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The Cards also showcased their depth at setter. Nayelis Cabello guided the offense in a 5–1 against Auburn and Morehead State, while graduate transfer Molly Wilson stepped in to run the system against St. John’s. Both kept the attack spread and efficient, proving Louisville has multiple ways to run its offense without missing a beat.

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Three matches, three sweeps, and a home crowd treated to pure Cardinal dominance. If the Cardinal Classic was a preview of what’s ahead, this Louisville team looks primed for another huge season.