Ladyjack Volleyball prepares for tournament this weekend
By: Ashley Edwards
Issue date: 9/11/08 Section: Sports
|
The Jacks will offer an exciting weekend of home play at the Shelton Gym with three matches. The Ladyjack Invitational includes matches against solid opponents. On Friday it will be a battle with the Sooners of Oklahoma University kicking off the tournament at 7:30 p.m. On Saturday at 2 p.m. the Jacks play against the Owls of Rice. Creighton defeated the Ladyjacks last year at the Bluejay Invitational, and now SFA will fight with vengeance on their home court at 7:30 p.m.
On Sunday a non-tournament match against Texas-Pan America at 1 p.m. will wrap up the weekend.
The volleyball program is currently holding one of the highest winning averages in SFA athletics. Oddly enough, the sports exposure is limited for most spectators. Attending the matches will prove to be exciting and invigorating. "The speed of the game is the best aspect of Ladyjack Volleyball," Robert Hill, athletic director, said. "The athletic ability of the team is also top-notch."
The Southland is a competitive conference. With two well versed seniors-Lauren Railey and Shelly Swendig-and three powerful juniors, the Jacks are ready to take the conference with force.
The consistency of the program can be found in 13 of the past 15 seasons finishing either first or second in conference. Debbie Humphreys' drive as head coach for more than 20 years has sustained a consistent level of success.
"We have the highest winning percentage of any volleyball program in the state of Texas," Erin McClanahan, assistant coach said. "It instills pride into every SFA fan that steps foot into our gym when we walk away with a victory, especially against an archrival like Sam or a 'big' school like last year when we beat Tulsa in the Conference USA champions (and they went to the NCAA)."
The Ladyjacks could us some support for the nine home matches held at William R. Johnson Coliseum. Oct. 22 vs archrivals Sam Houston and Oct. 25 vs. Lamar are two highlight games. The SLC tournament will be held at SFA on Nov. 21-23. For a schedule check out www.sfajacks.com
"The benefits of attending matches is, first and foremost, school spirit. We are one of the most successful programs on campus, and students that come out are guaranteed an exciting match against top opponents," McClanahan said. "Student fans create a home court atmosphere that is tops in the conference. Teams DO NOT want to play at SFA because of the fans. Plus, we have fun during games, and volleyball matches are like one big party."
Be the first to comment on this story