April 6, 2008
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. -
The Illinois State volleyball team continued its four-week spring season Saturday, competing in a series of Wash Drills and scrimmages against Illinois, Miami (Ohio) and Notre Dame at Huff Hall, the Fighting Illini's home facility. The Redbirds were coming off last weekend's 6-4 performance at the Chicago Spring Challenge.
In the morning session, ISU defeated both Notre Dame and Illinois in the main wash drill, which focused on an efficient serve-receive and first-ball attack. The modified game followed the same principles as "ping-pong," with each team serving five points, followed by a full rotation. Rotation points were awarded based on winning both the serve and receive points. Following the drills, the Redbirds completed the morning session with a two-game, 25-point sweep over Miami (Ohio).
After a lunch break, the Redbirds began the afternoon session with a two-game, 25-point sweep over the Fighting Irish. ISU and Illinois then split the next match, before the `Birds completed the day with a convincing sweep over the Redhawks, in two games played to 15.
Illinois State interim head coach Kelly Kreger was pleased with the Redbirds' improved blocking against a formidable group of hitters from all three opponents.
"Our focus all day was to challenge our blockers," said Kreger. "In Illinois and Notre Dame, we were facing some hitters that were much bigger and stronger than we are used to playing against, and they were really attempting to take advantage of their ability to hit through the block. But we really stepped up, and blocked better than we have all spring, without a doubt. As always, blocking sets up your defense, and that is where this team excels."
"Our offense was very crisp and fast, and that was impressive. Miami's coach (Carolyn Condit) had some really nice comments about us being the smartest team in the gym from an offensive standpoint."
The Redbirds will compete in their third spring event next Saturday (April 12) when Illinois State travels to Evanston, Ill.
