MIAMI SHORES, Fla. – The Saint Leo volleyball team begins their final trip of the 2011 regular season when they travel to Miami and take on Barry University in the first of a two-day, two-match trip within the Sunshine State Conference. The Lions conclude the season tomorrow afternoon against Lynn University.
The last time these two teams squared off, the Lions shook off their four-game winless streak, but allowed Barry to sneak a set one win into the match before sweeping the remainder in a 22-25, 25-13, 25-14, 25-17. It all suddenly clicked for the Lions as it seemed every ball was dropping inside the line and every set assist was on target. Not including the first set, the Lions averaged a .255 hitting percentage and their defensive presence at the net, non-existent for a few games, showed up big as the Saint Leo ran the table.
Danielle Bletso was again the big presence for the Lions on both sides of the ball with a team-high 13 kills, a .455 average and 3.5 blocks. A surprising name to everyone but the Saint Leo coaching staff atop the list of solid performers was freshman Lauren Campbell, who posted 10 kills and had nine digs, nearly working in her second career double-double.
Alexa Reed and Jaclyn Mailoto combined for all but four of the Lions' 47 assists and the team worked in seven aces. Corey Ryan and Emily Calderon-Reyes split 26 digs exactly down the middle as every starter played an important role in the win.
Match time is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Barry Health and Sports Center. Live links can be found under the volleyball schedule page.