FAYETTEVILLE – After an undefeated weekend to start the 2014 season, the University of Arkansas volleyball team is receiving votes in Monday’s release of the AVCA Division I Coaches Poll. The Razorbacks are 3-0 after their title run through the Arkansas Invitational that was capped Saturday night at Barnhill Arena with a five-set win over Michigan in the title match.
In addition to the program’s first-ever victory over Michigan, the Razorbacks opened the season with straight-set wins over Tennessee State and Stephen F. Austin. Arkansas was last mentioned among the nation’s best when it was earning votes in the AVCA rankings during the 2012 season. The Razorbacks are one of four teams from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) either ranked or receiving votes in this week’s national poll.
Buoyed by an impressive blocking effort, the Razorbacks battled back from an early 1-0 match deficit to post a 17-25, 25-23, 25-15, 19-25, 15-11 victory. Arkansas had 16.0 total team blocks against the Wolverines and held its opponent to a .121 hitting percentage. After one weekend of play, the Razorbacks lead the SEC in opponent hitting percentage, holding their opposition to a .062 clip through the first three matches of the year.
In recognition of their individual performances at the Arkansas Invitational, junior Chanell Clark-Bibbs was named the Tournament MVP while senior Meredith Hays and junior Monica Bollinger earned spots on the all-tournament team.
Arkansas returns to action Thursday for the start of the K-State Varney’s Invitational in Manhattan, Kan. The first match of the tournament is scheduled for 6 p.m. (CT) against the Wildcats. During the weekend, the Razorbacks will also play UCF on Friday at 5 p.m. and Middle Tennessee on Saturday at 1 p.m. Arkansas’ next home match is scheduled for Sept. 9 versus Oral Roberts.
Season tickets are currently on sale and can be purchased online at ArkansasRazorbacks.com or by calling 800-982-HOGS (4647). Beginning at $40, all season-ticket packages include a free team knit hat. Single-match tickets are $5 for adults while UA students and fans 17 years and younger get in free.
For more information about Arkansas volleyball, follow @RazorbackVB on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.