The St. Kate's volleyball team opened play at the Titan Tussle volleyball tournament against two nationally ranked opponents. The Wildcats gave #24 ranked Eastern University all they could handle before falling in five sets. They returned to the court against #1 ranked UW-Osh Kosh, and played well in three sets against the top team in the nation.

Against Eastern, St. Kate's jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead. The Wildcats defeated the Eagles 25-19 and 25-13 before falling in identical 25-18 scores in the third and fourth sets. The fifth set was a tremendous battle as both teams fought for the win. Eastern showed their experience and prevailed 21-19.

Playing the top-ranked team in the country was a tall task for the Wildcats, but they did not back down. They fought the Titans in all three sets, but lost 25-18, 25-23 and 25-20.

As Coach Hess prepared her team for play tomorrow she noted that "it was disappointing not to get a win, but we continue to improve, not back down from anyone and that is great to see."

The WIldcats resume play in the tournament at 10 am tomorrow when they face Lakeland College, and wrap up the weekend at 2 pm against Illinois Wesleyan.

Eastern University Box Score

UW-Oshkosh Box Score

Complete tournament information is available here