LOUISVILLE, KY. -- Principia faced another top team in conference, Spalding University, as well as the talented Rose-Hulman team, and lost both in three. What was remarkable about Principia today was their depth. Coaches were able to put different players in different rotations, while figuring out the most effective team on the court, and players responded with focus play.

 

Serve receive passing was the most difficult puzzle for Principia to figure out. They had trouble finding a rhythm with Spalding's tough topspin jump serves, which affected their ability to do anything on offense. Playing Spalding, Principia learned the importance of controlling the ball on offense. Spalding hitters' had great control on the ball as they hit the tough shots that hurt Principia's defense. However, Principia kept up with Spalding in the third game, and pulled ahead 20-17 as they worked to control their own shots and spread Spalding's defense. After Spalding crept back in the lead, Sarah Howard helped Principia's momentum with a nice hit to the deep corner and Christine Nacewicz tied the game 24-24 with a block on the right side. However, Spalding was able to finish the game 26-24.

 

Rose-Hulman also had good control with their serving and blocking. The first two games, Principia struggled to perfect serve receive passing and hitting around the block. They finally found their control in the third game, and kept the lead over Rose-Hulman until the very end of the game. After being tied 24-24 then 25-25, Principia lost 25-27.

 

Principia progressed with their play each game and understood how unstoppable they could be once they controlled their serve receive passing. Kiersten Andersen led the hitters today with 22 kills and Isabelle Tetu led the defense with 19 digs. PC play Westminister this Tuesday at home. Listen to the game on Principia Internet Radio (PIR) sports at 7pm Tuesday night.