RINDGE, N.H. – Concluding day one of the Raven First Serve Invitational, the University of Tampa Spartans went 2-0, defeating the New Haven Chargers 3-2 before sweeping the Franklin Pierce Ravens.

With these two wins, the Spartans start the 2018 season with an overall record of 2-0.

The Spartans were able to defeat the Chargers in their first match of the season by set scores of 22-25, 24-26, 25-18, 28-26, and 15-3. The sophomore powerhouse duo of Sorrel Houghton and Nylah Demps picked up right where they left off, leading Tampa’s offense for a combined 39 kills, 23 and 16 respectively. UT also welcomed back to the court 2016 All-SSC newcomer Katie McKiel after receiving a medical redshirt last season. The Colorado Springs, Colo. native logged a double-double in her return to the court, with 10 kills and 10 digs. Finally, 2017 All-Conference second team selection, Taylor Fosler also contributed heavily to the Spartans offensive efforts in the middle with 12 kills.

Tampa used Sammy Mueller as the team’s primary setter who ended the match with a double-double of her own stating 51 assists and 16 digs, while Nicole Dominguez suited up as libero earning 19 digs.  

In the second match of the day, the Tampa Spartans were able to sweep the Franklin Pierce Ravens by set scores of 25-16, 25-11, and 25-22. McKiel once again led the Spartans on offense with 11 kills, this time with the help of freshman Sarah Luoma also with 11 kills. Once again Mueller and Dominguez played setter and libero, ending the contest with 27 assists and 11 digs respectively.

Day two of the Raven First Serve Invitational will resume tomorrow at 10:00 A.M. EST with a matchup between the Tampa Spartans and the LIU Post Pioneers. Tampa will then conclude tournament play at 2:00 P.M. EST against Grand Valley State.

Tournament Website