Mike Hurlimann Sports Journalism Volleyball Game Story 10-18-13 Seton Hill University women's volleyball had a strong

performance from their front line in Friday night's match against Slippery Rock University at Morrow Field House as SHU went on to defeat The Rock in straight sets 25-17, 25-15, 25-20. Slippery Rock was unable to stop the attacking of Cassie Hausfeld, Shelby Kyllo, and Corrine Gahagen as they had 11, 10, and 9 kills respectively. "They were more aggressive on the front line," said SRU Coach Lori Lokash. Late in the third set Slippery Rock had an 18-16 lead, where Seton Hill Coach Rick Hall called a timeout that shifted the momentum back to Seton Hill. "I just told them that we need to play our game. We need to close them out in this game," said Hall. Seton Hill went on a six to nothing run to go up 22-18 and was able to hang on to close out the match in three sets. The final kill came from Katie Bloomgren, who was one of Seton Hill's most efficient attackers in the game, converting on 56.3% of her kill attempts. "I think we have a more mature team and they were able to execute at the end of each set," said Hall. "They were able to dominate when they needed to."

Slippery Rock's attack was highlighted by Kristy Lake with 10 kills, who was able to make a few momentum shifting kills in the first and third sets. "Its disappointing to lose this game," said Lake. "Seton Hill played an excellent game tonight. Overall they dominated our front line. I hope we can play better next time we meet." Lake and The Rock get their chance at redemption against the Griffins on November 9th at Seton Hill University. The loss to Seton Hill is Slippery Rock's first loss to the Griffins since their first meeting in 1986. The Rock was 8-1 all-time against Seton Hill before tonight's loss. Slippery Rock moves to the bottom half of the PSAC West with a 4-4 record. However Lake still seems positive about the remainder of the season. "It's still possible for us to make playoffs. If we execute we still have a chance," said Lake. Coach Lokash is determined to keep the team focused on improving after every match whether the result is a win or a loss. "Right now we're trying to make the team stronger every game and not worry about playoffs at this point," said Lokash. Slippery Rock made it close until the end of every set, but Seton Hill was able to find a way to finish and make the final run that clinched the victory. "We have a young team and because of that we're having trouble closing out games," said Lokash."We have to be more aggressive on the front line and not be hesitant."

Seton Hill out killed Slippery Rock 46 to 31 and out dug them 62 to 59. With the victory Seton Hill moved to 16-5 overall and 5-3 in PSAC standings. "Our athletes are up to the challenge and we will be competitive in the PSAC this year," said Hall. After tonight's win for Seton Hill, they will look to get another victory in their match against Edinboro University on Saturday. Slippery Rock's next match will be on Saturday against the Vulcans of California University of PA at Morrow Field House.