ASHEVILLE, N.C. ? The UNC Asheville volleyball team opens Big South Conference play this weekend with a pair of matches on the South Carolina coast. The Bulldogs head to Coastal Carolina Friday for a 7 p.m. match and then battle Charleston Southern Saturday afternoon at 4 p.m. Both matches can be seen live on the Big South Edge.
The Bulldogs (6-11) head into this weekend's action trying to break a three-game losing streak and to overcome some injuries.
“We've had nagging injuries all year long but you have to play through injuries,” commented UNC Asheville coach Julie Torbett. “We're still a young team and just haven't hit our stride yet. Hopefully, we can get things going this weekend.”
Asheville is receiving a great year from freshman outside hitter Kelsey Benorden. The Knoxville native is averaging 3.98 kills per game which leads the Bulldogs. Sophomore Lauren Ficker has been sensational this season. She's hitting .269 and leading the club in blocks at 0.92 per game.
“Our offense has really done a nice job this year,” stated Torbett. “We're hitting the ball pretty well and playing well in that area. However, we must improve on defense and our ball-handling. These are areas we've always been pretty good at but struggled with at times this year.”
Torbett knows both matches will be tough ones this weekend.
“Coastal Carolina is always tough to beat on the road and they have a solid club this season,” declared Torbett. “We had some great matches with them last year and I'm sure Friday's match will be another one.
“Charleston Southern has improved from last season and are always well-coached,” added Torbett. “They are extremely difficult to beat in their gym. We are going to have to play well in all areas of the game to have a chance to win this weekend.”
