Volleyball digs deep this weekend, as the team enters its last nonconference matches at the James Madison/Days Inn Invitational in Harrisonburg, Va. The Phoenix is 4-5, after losing four in a row.

“This weekend is important because it is the last time we’ll play before we begin conference [games],” head coach Mary Tendler said. “We want to go in on a high note.

“I am impressed with the team’s focus and work ethic. Once we get that consistency together, the wins will come.”

Elon begins the tournament against Florida Gulf Coast [6-1] on Friday. Saturday evening they play host James Madison [2-4] and Sunday they take on Charleston Southern [5-4].

“JMU will be tough. They have some very talented players. They have a center who is 6’4”. We haven’t played anyone that big,” Tendler said. “Our team likes to step up to the challenge, though. Upsets come up in volleyball all the time. Hopefully the night we play the Dukes, it will all come together.”

Tendler said she is pleased with the team’s progress. Last weekend serving was more precise; the players hit their targets and exploited the weaker passers.

Seniors Natalie Moore and Emily Lucci have stepped up as leaders. Moore, one of the team’s setters, has filled her position as “quarterback” on the court and Emily Lucci, a middle blocker, has led the team with her aggressive play.

The Phoenix will use this tournament as a final warm-up before conference play. They begin Southern Conference action against Georgia Southern next week.

“It will help because we are going to be playing against some tougher teams,” senior Britany Westphal said. “It will allow us to work on our defense and playing around a tough block. It’s always a great learning exprience playing against tougher teams.”

Reporter: Krista Naposki - 09/12/07