March 31, 2008

LUBBOCK, Texas - Texas Tech volleyball continued its preparations for the 2008 campaign by enjoying a successful spring tournament during the weekend. The Red Raiders finished with four wins and a tie Saturday at the United Spirit Arena.

Since spring volleyball tournaments are not officially recognized by the NCAA, official statistics were not available from play. Matches were composed of two games played to 25.

Tech opened up the day with a hard-fought tie with LCU in the morning, splitting the two games. From there, the Red Raiders had little rest, playing four matches one right after the other. Tech rolled through the competition though, picking up wins over ACU, Angelo State and Tarleton State before finishing off the event with a dispatching of Wayland Baptist.

Senior middle blocker Brandi Hood enjoyed a successful all-around tournament with a combined 24 kills and 16 blocks to help lead a balanced Red Raider attack, while Michelle Flores continued her strong play from the fall and led the team with 28 kills over the five matches. Junior Jenn Harrell showed why she is among the top liberos in the Big 12 by anchoring the Tech defense with 45 digs on the day. The Red Raiders also got a strong contribution from junior setter Caroline Witt, a mid year transfer from Blinn Junior College, who led the squad in assists while adding 19 kills.

Coach Nancy Todd returns 12 players from last year's team, while adding three highly touted freshmen. The Red Raiders will continue practices in preparation for the 2008 season that is slated to get underway in late August.