WU Looks Towards Growth and Development After HIU Summer Slam

The Westcliff women's volleyball team participated in their first tournament of the season, facing nonconference opponents Northwest (WA), Oregon Tech, Arizona Christian, and No. 10 Southern Oregon.

This season will be a period of growth and progress for Westcliff, but the fighting spirit and energy are always present for the Warriors.

Even though the Warriors didn't secure a win this weekend, they gained valuable experience that will benefit the team as they move forward.

"A lot of experience gained," shared head coach Andrew Cole. "For many, it was their first collegiate volleyball match. For eight, it was their first match with Westcliff University volleyball.

"They played with energy that kept the ball off the floor enough which gave us chances to score. It is often easier to react to an opponent attack than be one step ahead and drive an offense."

Samantha Carelock tallied up 27 kills and five service aces throughout the four matches as you start to sense star potential in this new Warrior.

Sam Swanson continues to grow as a libero and has worked a lot on her defense. Swanson had 47 digs in the four matches and her experience and leadership from playing last year will be instrumental.

Amanda Ferreira recorded 24 assists and 12 kills. She aims to replicate her success on the indoor courts as she did on the beach courts.

Ella Beck contributed 28 digs and 28 assists as the experienced Warrior aims to regain top form.

"The results on the scoreboard were less than desired by our competitive group, however, they maintain receptive listening to one another," explained head coach Cole after the tournament. "A great sign for growth and development.

"As this group of mostly new people knows each other better, we will find ways to score a point. We have 12 more matches before conference play, so learning about one another will continue."

Coach Cole planned the schedule to provide the Warriors with plenty of matches before their first conference game to ensure they were well-prepared and had sufficient sets under their belts.

This week, WU will be on the road again as they take on Life Pacific twice, Hope International, and Cal Tech.

In previous years, Westcliff has consistently come out on top when playing against Life Pacific and has been competitive against Hope. However, with a new group, most things will be new experiences this time around.

The first home match will be next week on Thursday, November 5th, against Arizona Christian University at the Jordan Lawley facility.

This season the Warriors will host half of their games at JLAW and the other half at Golden West College.

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