After a very slow start, the UMass women’s volleyball team decided they were sick of losing. At one point their record was 1-7, which did not bode well for the 2007 season. However, this young but confident team made some drastic changes in the way they were playing and put together some impressive wins. Throughout the regular season they collaborated to win four and then eight consecutive games, giving them a regular season record of 14-12.

They closed out the season by squaring off in conference matches against Plymouth State University and UMass Dartmouth. Plymouth State was the host for these games and used the home court to their advantage. They took the match 3-0. In desperate need of a conference win, the Beacons gave it all they had and took the second match to UMass Dartmouth 3-1. Dartmouth took the first set of the match, but the Beacons rallied and won the last three 30-28, 30-28, 30-27.

Senior setter Randle Stock gave another stellar performance contributing 53 assists en route to their first conference win. Freshman outside hitter, Karly Sanchez had a team-high of 14 kills and two blocks, while sophomore outside hitter Kate White had 12 kills, two aces, and a block as well. Sophomore outside hitter Meghan MacAuley had a big game all-around with 13 kills, 15 digs, and a block. Freshman libero Emily Thompson continued with her stellar defense, giving the Beacons a team-high 17 digs.

This young but experienced team for 2007 did a great job this year of staying focused when they could have easily packed it up at 1-7. With so many games in the volleyball season, they turned it around quickly and really gave it a run for their money. The Little East Tournament round robin will really show how determined these ladies are, and they will hopefully play at the level they are capable of.