When Chico State volleyball Head Coach Cody Hein began his recruiting efforts last fall, he was seeking to combine his existing talent with the kind of depth that would keep the Wildcats in the postseason mix for years to come. His first signee, Makaela Keeve, has quickly established herself as a vital part of the 2017 lineup while exhibiting the talents of a long-term star. The freshman middle hitter shined on both offense and defense to lead the 'Cats to wins over Simpson University and Cal State Dominguez Hills, making her the latest Wildcat of the Week.
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The San Rafael product enjoyed the most productive week of her young collegiate career, collecting 31 kills in three matches, averaging 2.82 kills per set and posting a solid .344 hitting percentage. Keeve also racked up 11 blocks and delivered a service ace in 11 total sets.
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Keeve led a balanced Wildcats attack with eight kills and two blocks Tuesday in a non-conference sweep of Simpson University, followed by a 10-kill, five block performance Friday against Cal State LA. She wrapped up the week with a career-best 13 kills to go along with four blocks Saturday, lifting the 'Cats to a four-set victory over CCAA rival Cal State Dominguez Hills.
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Keeve and the Wildcats are in Southern California this week for a pair of conference matches. Friday Chico State takes on Cal State San Marcos, followed by a Saturday showdown with UC San Diego.