Sept. 19, 2005

COMMERCE - While most of the Texas A&M University-Commerce teams will be adjusting to a conference division change, the women's volleyball team already knows what to expect from its North Division foes. And with conference play on the line against Southeastern Oklahoma State in Durant, Okla., that could be what the Lions need to make a run at the Lone Star Conference title.

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The Lions have struggled as of late in a string of 3-0 losses to some of the top schools in the region. But the Lions had shown steady progress from the start of the season onward. And now with the conference play to begin the most important aspect of the season, the Lions are looking forward to putting their learning experiences to good use in the North Division.

SOSU has also slipped their last four matches, including the last three to LSC South teams. And after moving to 7-7 on the season, the Lady Savages have a knack for just edging out opponents. They have a 1301-1300 lead in points scored this season against their opponents, while errors and total attacks are also nearly identical.

The Lions have had a week off from their last match to prepare for what is their most important date on the schedule thus far. In their only match last week, Brittany Williams landed nine kills on 34 attacks at Southern Arkansas. Junior Jane Latu has led the efforts for the Lion attack, sticking an average of 3.13 kills per game. The two each contributed 9.5 points in the loss.

One highlight from the Lions was their improved blocking. There were a total of 8.0 blocks, a season high, on 14 assisted blocks and one solo. Latu accounted for five assisted blocks.

Sophomore Colleen Favaro scored seven kills on just 17 attacks, a 35.3 attack percentage. But it wasn't enough to overcome a 26.2 attack percentage from SAU. The Lions will need to hinder the SOSU attack, which stands fifth in the LSC, for their best chances at winning.

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