After coming out on top of the last five consecutive conference games, the NIU volleyball team (11-10, 5-3 MAC) will try to go for six and seven in a row as it takes on Ohio and Kent State this weekend.

The Huskies will attempt to defend Victor E. Court against the defending MAC champions Ohio Bobcats (16-4, 8-0) tonight at 7 p.m.

Ohio’s record, so far this season, shows NIU will have its work cut out itself. The Bobcats come to Victor E. Court on an eight-game winning streak. They currently hold a perfect MAC record of 8-0.

And success is not exactly a new phenomenon for Ohio’s volleyball program. The Bobcats have secured five of the last six MAC championships.

Leading the team is senior outside hitter Ellen Herman. Herman came into this volleyball season after being selected to participate in the U.S Women’s National A2 Program, one of the 24 players selected from across the nation.

“She is the best player in our conference in my mind,” said NIU head coach Ray Gooden. “She’s just complete.”

Ohio will not be NIU’s only challenge of the weekend. Saturday, NIU will return to Victor E. Court to take on Kent State (11-11, 4-4) at 7 p.m.

Despite its even season and conferecne record, going up against Kent State has always been challenge lately for NIU.

The Huskies own the series record with 22 wins to six losses. But last season, KSU took NIU to a fifth tie-breaking set in the first round of the MAC tournament. The Huskies emerged victorious in the final set 15-11.

“Kent state is a very physical team,” Gooden said. “They have a couple of players that provide experience and stability.”

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