The Cardinals just couldn't stand that goose egg in their nest any longer. After starting the season 0-4, the Ball State women's volleyball team fought back in a big way this weekend by winning the University of New Hampshire Tournament to move its overall record to 3-4.
The trio of wins couldn't have come at a better time according to head coach Randy Litchfield.
"We needed a shot of confidence as much as anything else," Litchfield said. "The quality of field wasn't great, but it was good. We didn't play great, but we played real tough and with a lot of heart. That's a big positive for us."
Ball State opened the tournament with a dominant 3-0 victory over Fairfield University on Friday night. Saturday morning saw the Cards square off against the University of Connecticut and come away with a 3-1 win. BSU edged host UNH 3-2 in the final match of the tournament to take the title. In the tournament finale, the Cardinals posted team season-best totals of 74 kills, 90 digs and a .202 hitting percentage.
Overall, Litchfield is pleased with his team's effort.
"We played better," Litchfield said. "We just got a little healthier and some of our people a little more back to normal. That allowed us to do a lot more."
Sophomore Sarah Obras was named tournament MVP for her performance throughout the tournament. The 5-foot-10 outside attacker averaged 20.7 kills and 24.3 digs per match over the weekend.
"We've grown accustom to great offensive performances out of Sarah, but she gave us a big time defensive effort as well," Litchfield said.
Junior libero Stephanie Keller joined Obras on the all-tournament team. Keller tallied a BSU season-high 34 digs in the win over UCONN to help secure her place on the team.
"She just was a playmaker for us and especially made the big plays at critical times," Litchfield said.
The Cardinals now get a little rest before heading to Pittsburgh for another tournament next weekend. A chance to practice instead of play matches will be very helpful for Ball State, Litchfield said.
"It has been nearly two weeks since full practice and it shows in our inconsistency right now," he said. "Three good solid days in the gym will do us wonders this week."
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