The Lady Bisons volleyball team returned from matches in Alabama with a record of 5-4. The Lady Bisons defeated Union University 3-1 on Tuesday, Sept. 9. The team then traveled to Florence, Ala., for the University of North Alabama tournament on Friday, Sept. 13, and Saturday, Sept. 14. On Friday, the ladies defeated Christian Brothers University 3-2, and the University of Missouri 3-1. On Saturday, they secured a 3-0 win over Missouri University of Science and Technology and were defeated by Northwood University 3-2.
Junior Marindia Turner set a school record with five service aces in a four set match Tuesday against Union. Junior Taryn Eubank also set a record with five aces in a three set match against Missouri S&T.
The Lady Bisons also played in Cal State San Bernardino’s volleyball tournament on Sept. 6 and 7, leaving the tournament with one win and three losses. According to head volleyball coach Meredith Fear, the Alabama and California tournaments were lineups against strong teams to get the girls ready for upcoming games.
“I purposefully scheduled tough pre-conference tournaments because I believe this team has a lot of potential,” Fear said. “We have seen some great competition in our first nine games and we are learning a lot in preparation for conference play.”
According to Fear, traveling to games strengthens the team’s skill as well as the friendships between the girls. Eubank said she agrees and those friendships are now strong bonds.
“One of the great things about Harding volleyball is that we get along on and off the court,” Eubank said. “We truly are a family and are there for one another if anyone ever needs it.”
According to Eubank, the biggest encouragement comes from fans filling the stands and cheering the team on at games.
“It is the most exciting thing to know we get to show off all of our hard work in front of a packed gym,” Eubank said.
The Lady Bisons defeated Henderson State at home on Sept. 17. The team will participate in the Arkansas-Fort Smith Tournament on Sept. 20 and 21.
