GREELEY, Colorado – The Utah Valley State volleyball team made quick work of both South Dakota State and Providence College, sweeping both matches on Friday on the second day of the Division I Independent Championship.
The Wolverines beat SDSU, 30-19, 30-19, 30-22, and then turned around in the consecutive match to defeat PC, 30-20, 30-18, 30-26. UV will go into Saturday's pool play as a number one seed.
"They were just absolutely phenomenal today," said head coach Sam Atoa about his squad. "They did everything well in all areas of the game. They took care of a great team."
With the win over the Jackrabbits, the Wolverines guaranteed themselves a winning record on the year. It will be the first time in the school's three-year NCAA Division I history, Utah Valley State would accomplish an over .500 record.
"What a great accomplishment for our program," said Atoa.
Camie Manwill and Anne Olsen led the way offensively for the Wolverines against SDSU. Manwill, who was named the Division I Independent Newcomer of the Week last week, had 14 kills and 12 digs. It was her seventh double double of the season. Olsen had 12 kills. Lacee Koelliker was strong as usual with 39 assists and 11 digs, to record her team leading tenth double double. Middle blocker Stephanie McFarland was a nice compliment to the front row, hitting .600 with nine kills and no errors.
"Stephanie played great and was a needed boost for us," said Atoa.
Against Providence Jessica Endres'13 kills, were key in the victory. Manwill added nine kills. Kari Heers was solid on the back row with 13 digs and snuck in three kills.
Utah Valley State and IPFW are the only two undefeated teams left in the tournament. The Wolverines will face host-team Northern Colorado Saturday at 10:30 am (MST), for a chance to play in the championship match at 7:30 pm (MST). IPFW will play SDSU for a chance at the title.
Live stats of UV's match against UNC can be followed by going to:Â http://uncbears.collegesports.com/sports/w-volley/sched/ncol-w-volley-sched.html
