November 16, 2010

Tech takes on Jacksonville State Thursday in opening round of OVC Tournament

In what has become a consistent theme over the last four seasons, the Tennessee Tech volleyball team will take part in its fourth straight Ohio Valley Conference Tournament this week under head coach John Blair.

To view OVC Tournament bracket click here

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – In what has become a consistent theme over the last four seasons, the Tennessee Tech volleyball team will take part in its fourth straight Ohio Valley Conference Tournament this week under head coach John Blair.

"There is a different feel now," Blair said. "The intensity goes up and the cost of losing goes up. We're only three matches away from the NCAA Tournament which helps put the match in perspective."

The Golden Eagles (10-19, 8-10 OVC), who are the sixth seed, will take on the third-seeded Jacksonville State Gamecocks (16-13, 11-7 OVC) Thursday, at 3:30 p.m., CT in Morehead, Ky.

Tech fans are invited to follow the team to the tournament, but for those who can't make the trip to Kentucky the action can be heard live on FREE teamline via either the telephone or the internet. Fans can listen via internet through a link on the Tech athletics web site (TTUsports.com). To listen via telephone, call 1-800-846-4675. Tech's team code is 0654.

Joining Tech and JSU in the OVC Tournament this year the first-seeded Morehead State Eagles and the second-seeded Austin Peay Lady Govs, who will each have a first round bye. Fourth-seeded Murray State and fifth-seeded Eastern Kentucky round off the six-team tournament and will face each other Thursday, at 6 p.m.

The Golden Eagles swept the season series against Jacksonville State with a pair of 3-1 victories. In their two matches against JSU senior Leah Meffert and sophomore Kelsey Gray led the Golden Eagles in kills with 24, while senior Marie Peddicord added 23. Senior Melanie Culp added 79 assists, while freshman Allison May posted 58 digs.

"Jacksonville State is a good team and well coached," Blair said. "So far we've done a good job matching up with them and hopefully w can continue that Thursday."

Should Tennessee Tech defeat Jacksonville State, it would go on to face Austin Peay in the second round of the OVC Tournament Friday, at 3:30 p.m. The championship match of the OVC Tournament will be played Saturday, at 4 p.m.

Livestats of the matches will be available on the Morehead State athletics page www.msueagles.com