PALM DESERT, Ca.– Former Bowling Green Lady Cat volleyball standout, Caitlin Bilhartz had an impressive sophomore season. The Bowling Green native lead the College of the Desert Roadrunners to their first conference title in 15 years.

The 6’0” middle blocker has been rock steady for the Roadrunners, quickly making a name for herself in the Inland Empire Athletic Conference. Bilhartz has posted 48 blocks and 143 points in her 22 match starts this season.

On November 4, the Roadrunners swept the defending IEAC Champions, the Mt. San Jacinto Eagles. Bilhartz led the team with two solo blocks, three kills, and two assist blocks, leading the Roadrunners to victory.

“It’s such a great feeling. They hadn’t won a title in fifteen years. It means a lot especially because my high school career wasn’t as successful, so this is a new feeling for me,” said Bilhartz.

College of the Desert then picked up another series sweep over San Bernardino Valley, marking the team’s tenth sweep of the season. Bilhartz led the team with three assist blocks, three kills, and two service aces.

Much of the success this season comes from the coaching staff’s focus on individual skills, and team chemistry. The combination has enhanced Bilhartz playing ability on the court, making her an asset at the collegiate level.

“The coaching staff broke down positions and really broke down our individual talents. They focused on my position and bettering me in that spot. This approach has been a key component in our team’s success,” added the middle blocker.

In their final regular series, College of the Desert finished the season on a win.

“Chaffey was a really good team, and they had a decent record. They were known for beating some high-ranked teams, so we knew it’d be a tough game. It was a good challenge to round out the season before playoffs,” said the Bowling Green native.

The Roadrunners defeated Chaffey 3-1. Bilhartz added five points to her season total and had two kills in the victory.

Bilhartz and the Roadrunners will look to extend their season on Saturday as they compete in the Southern California Regionals. The Roadrunners are set to take on the Rio Hondo Roadrunners in Whittier, California.