Top-seeded Simpson clinched the 2009 Iowa Conference Tournament on Sunday when they swept No.3 Wartburg in three games (25-19, 25-17, 25-18). It was the second time in two weeks that Simpson defeated Wartburg for a championship – the Storm beat Wartburg 3-2 on Oct. 27, in Waverly to become the IIAC regular season champions.

Coach Lana Smith said the dominating win is proof of the team’s hard work all season.

“To beat Loras last night and then to beat Wartburg in three was huge for us,” Smith said. “I didn’t expect three, but I think it was a true testament to how hard this group has worked and the dedication they have to reaching their goals.”

With the win, the Storm earned a bid to the NCAA national tournament next week.

Smith said the team will spend the next week fine-tuning a few things and analyzing the competition.

“I know the girls don’t want to bow out of that tournament right away,” Smith said. “I know they’re going to take a look at our region and see if we can get out of the region.”

The Storm enter the tournament with a 21-13 record. It will be their seventh NCAA appearance.