August 26, 2006

GLENVILLE, W.Va.—Freshman middle blocker Galina Podolsky (Raleigh, N.C.) was named to the Pioneer Invitational All-Tournament team after helping lead the St. Andrews volleyball team to victories on back-to-back days. On Saturday, the Knights defeated the University of Bridgeport 3-1 (23-30, 30-28, 30-18, 30-28) but dropped their tourney finale to Slippery Rock University 3-1 (30-32, 30-12, 30-17, 30-28).

The Knights (2-2 overall) return to North Carolina for their home opener on Tuesday evening against non-conference Francis Marion University at 7:00 p.m.

“We are happy to get started and get two quick wins to show our improvement over last year,” said second year head coach Dan Kreiger. “I saw a lot of positives and places to work on this weekend which will give us a good basis for the rest of the season.”

St. Andrews 3 (23, 30, 30, 30) vs. Bridgeport 1 (30, 28, 18, 28)

Podolsky ripped 21 kills and a .486 hitting percentage in the Knights second victory of the young 2006 campaign against the Purple Knights. Podolsky also defended well with a team-high four block assists.

Senior setter Kim Harper (Boca Raton, Fla.) provided support across the court with 36 assists, 19 digs and four service aces. Junior outside hitter Lindsey Stansbury (Morgan City, La.) chipped in with 18 digs, three block assists, and three aces. Junior outside hitter Tara Lemieux (Panama City, Fla.) drilled 13 kills and senior middle blocker Jesi Bewley (Cincinnati, Ohio) served up four aces. Junior libero Erin Haugen (Fort Mill, S.C.) scooped up 28 digs.

St. Andrews 1 (32, 12, 17, 28) vs. Slippery Rock 3 (30, 30, 30, 30)

Stansbury led the Knights offensive attack in a four-game loss to Slippery Rock with 21 digs and 12 kills.

Harper’s strong play to start the season continued with 34 assists, 17 digs, and three aces. Podolsky finished with 11 kills and Haugen made 20 digs.