Over this past weekend the Hillsborough Community College Volleyball team hosted the Tri-Team Initational. Friday evening HCC opened against Lake Sumter State College. HCC Hawks stole the match in a sweeping matter (25-14, 25-16, 25-23). Head Coach Garry Larkin commented, "It was great to start against a well-coached opponent. We learned a lot today." HCC Hawks came out with a win in mind, especially outside hitter Isabel Martin. Martin contributed 16 kills and 3 aces. "Isi made big plays in big moments," noted Larkin. "Don't let the quiet demeanor fool you."
On Saturday the Hawks competed against, Indian River State College and Florida State College at Jacksonville. The first match of the day was at 10 a.m. against IRSC. The Hawks fought the Pioneers in a four-game series and walked away with another win. (25-22, 20-25, 26-24, 25-15). While the Hawks fell short in a tough second game, they made some adjustments and took care of business the next two sets. "We finished strong in those last two sets," noted Larkin. "We found another level, and I liked our intensity," stated Head Coach Larkin.
The third and final match of the weekend was at 2 p.m. against FSCJ, which made the Hawks buckle down and work together though a four game series. The first two games were back and forth with scores of 25-20 and 23-25. After a quick break with motivational and strategic discussions, the Hawks came out ready to fight and won the next two games (25-16, 25-14). When asked how the momentum turned in HCC's favor, Alanis said, "Sometimes you just have to celebrate as hard as you hit."
Assistant Coach Danielle Priest commented, "We play a fun brand of volleyball that needs to be seen."
Over the weekend the Hawks put up some impressive stats. Outside Hitter Isabell Martin totaled in 44 kills and Middle Blocker Nadine Burbrik adding 20 more. Setters Mari Volponi and Zoe Konjer had a total of 131 assists, while our libero defensive player Carol Benke totaled in 48 digs.
"The first weekend can be a roller coaster, but we are satisfied with our results and what we learned," said Larkin. "These players don't care about today; they are working for tomorrow."
The 3-0 Lady Hawks return to action Tuesday night against Daytona State at home at 6 p.m.