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Undefeated Juniata College meets La Verne in NCAA tourney
HUNTINGDON -- Juniata College is on a mission this volleyball season as they eye their third straight national championship. But, in order to do that they'll need to vanquish La Verne today at 4:30 p.m. in Elite Eight action.
"La Verne has quite possibly the most physical outside hitter in Division III volleyball and they will get her lots of swings. We will certainly have to be aware of where she is at all times," Eagles head coach Heather Pavlik said.
What can Juniata College (32-0) take advantage of in this matchup at Roanoke College?
"As always, I think we can take advantage of the fact that we have been both one of the top serving and defensive teams in the country this year. Our offense is also really balanced so we can make La Verne have to defend and focus on all five hitters," Pavlik responded.
Juniata hasn't lost a set since Sept. 14 versus Wisconsin-Oshkosh. The Leopards (26-5) have only lost one set in the past month.
"The biggest change in this group through the season is how much the freshmen and sophomores have grown. Our practice gym has gotten so competitive because these young players are so much more confident and aggressive. It makes for an amazing practice gym everyday," Pavlik highlighted when asked about the growth of the team from Day 1 of the season to now.
The Eagles are locked in and at this time of the year it's hard to imagine anyone slowing this team down.
"This group is very experienced so they know what to expect this time of year. They are focused but also loose which is important. We do treat every game exactly the same when it comes to prep work because we believe in consistency," Pavlik mentioned.
The Eagles have gotten big contributions from seniors Lily Podolan (216 kills) and Mackenzie Coley (296 kills). Also graduate players Olivia Foley (967 assists) and Kennedy Christy (230 kills) have been major factors this season.
But, as with every championship-caliber team, every player on the roster chips in during a long year.
"I think that three players who are playing really well right now are Sydney Ohl, Courtney Williams and Mia Schubert. They don’t get a lot of press but they are so consistent and hard working," Pavlik added.
With hopes of advancing to the NCAA semifinals on Thursday, Juniata will continue to keep their feet on the gas pedals.
During their playoff journey, the Eagles haven't experienced many out-of-the-blue moments.
"I don’t think that there have been too many surprises but more teams are serving us tougher. Almost feels like we set the standard for serving tough and now others are following our lead," Pavlik explained.
This marks the fourth straight year Juniata has reached the Elite Eight and the 34th time in their program history. Many Eagles fans will be on the edge of their seats and rightfully so, it's not often people see a potential three-peat.