VALDOSTA, Ga. - The Valdosta State volleyball team used
Jenna Kirkwood's best hitting effort of the 2014 season to claim a 3-0 (25-17, 25-20, 25-14) Gulf South Conference win over the Lee Lady Flames on Friday night at The Complex.
Kirkwood, the Blazers' veteran outside hitter, swung for a .471 hitting percentage that was composed of 16 kills and no errors. The performance marked the second time this year that the Seminole, Fla. native eclipsed the .400 mark.
"I told (Coach)
Ondrej Mican on Wednesday that I wanted to improve my game and step it up during this second half of the season," said Kirkwood. "I felt like I was playing it safe during the first half, and I'm really looking to have a different mindset from this point on. I want to hit the ball harder, but at the same time, play with a high volleyball IQ."
Kelsey Hedman added 10 kills in 23 attempts for Valdosta State, while
Natalia Campos and
Jessica Codato both chipped in offensively with two service aces each. Freshman
Emily Matio made some noise both offensively and defensively with five kills and a team high five blocks (one solo).
The Blazer defense held strong in the match and held the Lady Flames to a .096 hitting percentage, due in large part to 14 blocks and 53 digs.
Ashley Lala and Codato led the way with twelve digs apiece, while
Natalia Campos added 10.
Valdosta State returns to action on Saturday in a big GSC match against the Shorter Hawks, who currently hold an undefeated record in conference play and represent the top ranked team in the conference. Tip time is slated for a 10:00 a.m. start at The Complex, with live stats and video available at www.vstateblazers.com.
