TACOMA, Wash. - The 22nd-ranked Pacific Lutheran University volleyball squad opened up the 2018 season with a bang on Friday, collecting a pair of wins at the expense of University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and Elizabethtown College at the Puget Sound Premiere. The Lutes downed the Titans 3-0 in the opener before downing the Blue Jays 3-0 to close the day.
"It was a great first day for us," head coach Kevin Aoki said. "I am really pleased with the way we came and controlled the net with nine total blocks in each match."
In the opener, the Lutes (2-0) needed just three sets to put away the Titans (0-1) earning 25-17, 25-22, and 25-16 set wins to secure the match. Isabella Zubrod powered the offensive in the opening victory, securing a team-high 10 kills and six assists. Caylie Shiramizu posted 12 digs while Mackenzie Harris racked up five blocks.
Against Elizabethtown (0-2), the Lutes netted a 25-23, 25-21, and 25-14 decision led by senior Chloe Epker with nine kills and three blocks. Zubrod continued her excellent play with six kills and 18 assists, while Shiramizu posted 15 digs to help lock up the win for the Lutes.
"I think the first year players did well while the returners have set the tone . Really excited for this group and see them progress throughout the year."
The Lutes close out the Puget Sound Premiere tomorrow with matches against 16th-ranked Millikin University and host University of Puget Sound.
