The volleyball team got back onto the court this weekend participating in the Emory National Invitational Tournament. Led by Head Coach Jenny McDowell, the No.6-ranked Eagles went 4-0 during the weekend, winning two games on Friday against SUNY Cortland and Juniata College (Pa.), and two games on Saturday against Berry College and Trinity University (Texas).
“It was a great weekend for us,” McDowell said. “We had the opportunity to honor our senior leader and captain Sarah Taub. Sarah has had an incredible four-year career for us, and this current team success is due largely in part to Sarah’s leadership, work ethic and commitment to our volleyball program.”
Junior Cat McGrath led the way on Friday, leading the team in attacks for both matches and finishing with 10 terminations against Cortland and 13 kills against Juniata.
“Cat McGrath was incredible all weekend.” McDowell said. “Not only did she play great but she also was a fantastic leader on the court.”
McGrath deferred the praise to the entire Eagles squad.
“As a whole, our team played very well,” McGrath said. “We played fast, consistent and intense. We didn’t let the other team’s speed or tempo dictate our play, which was key. Also, everyone really stepped up as leaders and played their role.”
On Saturday, the Eagles were able to defeat Berry College in a 3-1 decision before knocking off Trinity University in a long match that finally finished in a 3-2 decision in favor of Emory. The 4-0 record of the two-day tournament improved the Eagles’ record to 26-3 on the year.
As the Eagles head into the end of their schedule, the team is excited about what they can accomplish.
“We learned this weekend that when we play for our teammates, and not ourselves, that’s when we play our best,” McGrath said. “If we play all out and leave no regrets on the court in the next few weeks, we’ll be national champions. No doubt.”
The team will play its next match this Friday, Nov. 8, when they travel to Waltham, Mass. to compete in the University Athletic Association Championships. The Eagles will play against Case Western Reserve University (Ohio) at 2 p.m.
– By Brian Chavkin
Photo courtesy of Emory Athletics
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