The University of Dallas women’s volleyball team kicked off their season with three games at the Austin College Classic in Sherman, Texas this past weekend.
UD was defeated by Hardin-Simmons University (HSU) in a 3-set match, with final scores of 25-14, 25-23 and 25-12.
Dallas was unable to find the lead in the first match, but managed to hold a tied score at 6-6 in the first set and 15-15 in the second set. HSU ended the second set leading by 2 points.
UD’s offensive leads were career-debuting freshmen Emma Holland from Waukesha, Wis. and Dayjah Whyte from Round Rock, Texas. Each hitter recorded seven kills in their first collegiate game.
On Saturday, Sept. 1, the UD women’s team continued the competition in a doubleheader against Hendrix College and Concordia University.
Dallas fell in the first game against Hendrix in a 3-match set with final scores of 25-13, 25-19 and 25-15. Senior Sarah Hughes was a defensive presence for Dallas with 13 digs. Dallas played next against Concordia.
Dallas came out victorious after the 5-set battle against Concordia, with final scores of 25-20, 19-25, 25-22, 14-25 and 15-13.
“After we lost the first game, we talked [to the rest of the] team to figure out what we could do better,” Whyte said when asked about their improvement in the final match of the classic. “In the second game, we communicated more and asked what shots we could make to score.”
Whyte led the team with 12 kills, while freshmen Isabel Garcia and Abigail Porras also debuted their collegiate career with 10 kills each. Setting the foundation for a promising season, the Dallas team recorded 55 kills, 88 digs, 49 assists, 12 blocks and 10 service aces.
“This season I am most excited about connecting with everyone,” Whyte said. “In a team, forming a bond with your teammates is crucial. With a strong bond, the wins will surely come after.”
Whyte was named to the All-Tournament Team after her offensive performance so far this season.
