Chico State Athletics

When Kristyn Casalino joined the Chico State volleyball team this fall, she became part of a roster that included a stable of talented outside hitters and an All-CCAA middle blocker. As a result, the junior transfer from Santa Rosa Junior College had to exercise quite a bit of patience to crack the Wildcats' formidable starting lineup. But when she did earlier this month, Casalino definitely made the most of her expanded playing time, and on the strength of solid performances over the weekend against Cal State Dominguez Hills and Cal State L.A., she is the latest Wildcat of the Week.

With just 23 combined swings, Casalino tallied 13 kills for the 'Cats while posting a glittering .435 hitting percentage. When she wasn't producing points for the offense, Casalino was a major defensive force at the net, piling up eight block assists during the two nights of action. She also contributed five digs and one assist.

Friday against Cal State Dominguez Hills, Casalino delivered five kills, two digs and had a hand in six blocks, but it wasn't enough to keep the 'Cats from falling to the Toros in three sets. Saturday versus Cal State L.A., Casalino pounded out eight kills in just 13 swings (a .462 hitting percentage) and added two more blocks to help the Wildcats grab a come-from-behind five set victory over the Golden Eagles.

Chico State's win-loss record over the last two weeks is clear proof of Casalino's impact on the team. Since becoming a starter, the Wildcats have won three of their last four matches to improve to 14-13 on the season.

Casalino and the Wildcats wrap up the regular season this weekend, hosting Humboldt State Friday and Cal Poly Pomona Saturday at Acker Gym.