Ball State University's women's volleyball team has been on a positive roll, and hopes to keep it up throughout the games this weekend.-á
Over the weekend Ball State will play two conference games against Ohio University and Kent State University.-áThe team has been coming together both defensively and offensively.-á
Defensively, Amanda McCormick played outstandingly over last week's play.-áShe was named Collegiate Update National and MAC West Players of the week. She is also leading the NCAA with 7.07 digs per game.-á
The senior libero has helped bring the team up to her level of play.
"Obviously I was really excited to be recognized with the way I've been playing," McCormick said. "It is really more important to me to know that our team is being successful."
"We were in desperate need of a great week, and I thought Amanda's performance was the spearhead," coach Randy Litchfield said. "She just played so well all week long, and I though her performance led others to some great play."
Not only has the team been strong defensively, but offensively the team has stepped it up too.-á
Most of the teams the Cardinals have been playing lately focus on defense.-áOhio will be one of the first strong offensive teams Ball State will face.
"I think it will take a totally team defensive effort beating Ohio," McCormick said.
McCormick was not the only one who experienced her best week of the season. Fellow senior Kelly Cochran led the team with three double-doubles.-áCochran and Julie Breivogel have been an offensive force all season.
"I've said it before: You don't win or lose with freshman, you win or lose with seniors, and Amanda and Kelly have really caught fire," Litchfield said.
"Kelly has been playing absolutely fantastic," McCormick said. "She's working on playing consistent."
The only question is will the team be able to keep up their high level of play for their games this weekend.-áThe Cardinals are coming off a six day break. Not only are they coming off a long layoff, but they are going to be going up against Ohio, who is ranked No. 21 in the latest coaches poll.
"Ohio is really physical," Litchfield said.-á"They are one of the most physical volleyball teams in the country, let alone in the MAC. We have a big challenge just trying to get caught up with their pace of play and on how athletic they are.-áThey've used the short serve against us in the past couple of years and we have to be prepared to be successful."
Ball State is in action Friday against Ohio at 7:00 p.m., and then will turn around and play Kent State on Saturday at 7:00 p.m., both at Worthen Arena.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
