Coming off a momentous weekend in Nebraska, the Virginia volleyball team returns to Memorial Gym to start the two-day Marriott Cavalier Invitational, which will feature Albany, Villanova and in-state rival Virginia Tech.
At the Ameritas Players Challenge in Lincoln, Neb. last weekend, the Cavaliers (5-4) took a set from a top-10 nationally ranked team, BYU.
"I think we have some very good momentum after this weekend in Nebraska," Virginia coach Lee Maes said.
Virginia starts off this weekend's play against undefeated Virginia Tech (9-0). The Cavaliers had a 1-1 record against the Hokies in the 2008 season.
At the beginning of ACC conference play last season, the Cavaliers were swept 3-0, but were able to take revenge by defeating the Hokies 3-2 during senior night at Memorial Gym.
The match will open up ACC play for both teams. Maes said he expects it "to be a tough match inherently."
The Cavaliers will look to senior outside hitter Lauren Dickson to help lead the team. Dickson was named to the Ameritas Players Challenge all-tournament team and earned MVP accolades in the Jefferson Cup.
"She's been a very steady factor for us not only in passing but offensively as well," Maes said. "What's really evident is her ability to make smart shots when things are out of system and that keeps our opposing teams off balance."
Although Virginia played NCAA regulars Nebraska and UCLA this past weekend, the team is not taking Villanova, Albany and Virginia Tech for lesser squads.
"I think one thing that coach has been focusing on right now is playing and preparing the same no matter what team you're playing," junior middle Sydney Hill said.
Villanova, Virginia's second competitor of the weekend, has an 8-3 record. Sophomore defensive specialist Kim Maroon was recently named MVP of the Villanova Classic last weekend, helping the Wildcats win the title.
The Cavaliers will take on Albany to round out the weekend. Albany seems to be Virginia's weakest competitor, as it holds a 4-6 record. Although the Great Danes have not seen the other teams' success, they were able to earn the UAlbany Classic title earlier this month.
As for Virginia, the Cavaliers have been flawless at home, sweeping their opponents earlier this month to earn their second consecutive Jefferson Cup title. The team hopes to carry that momentum into this weekend's matchups.
"We really want to keep that undefeated energy and everything alive at Mem Gym," Hill said.
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