Lady Barons Topple Lady Lions

MONACA, Pa. – Wednesday marked a noteworthy beginning for the Franciscan University of Steubenville's women's volleyball team with a solid 3-0 win against Penn State Beaver. With two new setters and a veteran right side hitter out with a hip injury, the Lady Barons were anxious to see what they could do.

Looking to control their side of the net and to be consistent in offense, head coach Kelly Herrmann gave the Lady Barons focus: "You can worry about this girl and that girl on the other side, but if instead you take care of your side of the net, run a good offense, and give your setter options, you've set yourself to be ahead of the competition." 

Herrmann was impressed with the overall play, but especially by Franciscan's improved hitting compared to last season. "We really struggled in being consistent last year," Herrmann noted. "It was one of our weaknesses, so it was encouraging to see real improvement." 

The Lady Barons toppled the Lady Lions with three match wins of 25-21, 25-19, and 25-17.

The outstanding performances of sophomores Meg Kay and 2009's AMCC Newcomer of the Year Anna Cain strengthened Franciscan's side of the net. Kay contributed 18 kills on the night, with Cain closely following with a rounded-out performance of 10 kills, four aces and two blocks. Always solid, Nicole Henson contributed seven digs.

The Lady Barons face a tough schedule against some strong Division III programs, but Herrmann is excited to use the team's many non-conference challenges to prepare for their Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference play. 

A tri-match is scheduled for this Saturday, September 4, at Chatham University. The Lady Barons will take on La Roche College and Chatham University, ready with Herrmann's motto to "play from start to finish, and finish strong".