Aug. 29, 2008

PRINCESS ANNE, Md. - The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) Women's Volleyball team had a great 2007 season that included 24-4 record, an undefeated record in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), a 22 game win streak and numerous post-season honors. Tonight they look to start what they hope will be a similar season, but this time, one that ends with a conference title.

UMES fell short to the Florida A&M Rattlers it the finals of the conference tournament, coming just shy on NCAA Tournament berth. MEAC Coach of the Year Don Metil felt that his team, despite a great record, just hadn't faced enough teams on the level of the Rattlers and this year made some schedule adjustments that include match-ups with some of the regions' top teams. The season opener is no exception.

The Hawks square off with the Hokies of Virginia Tech tonight at 7:00 p.m. on the opening day of the tournament. The two teams have never meant before tonight, but UMES will be tested. Despite their 14-18 record in 2007, The Hokies are an ACC foe, one that is proven and favored in tonight's match-up. Va. Tech is 17-14 in season openers.

Other teams in the Hawthorn Suites Hokie Invitational include Coastal Carolina who was 15-17 last year but, like Va. Tech, return all but one starter. UMES places the Chanticleers at 10:00 a.m. and then takes on MEAC foe Winston-Salem State Saturday at 7:00 pm. The Rams were 4-26 in 2007.

The matches will feature live stats and a live web cast at www.Hokiesports.com and www.HokieTV.com, respectively.

UMES, the only team in the event with a winning record, also returns six starters, including MEAC MVP Whitney Johnson, MEAC First-Team selection Christina' Estebane and Second-Teamer Caylin Woodward. They are on the road until October 3rd. The Hawks have just five home matches this season and play 17 straight away from the Hytche Center to open the season.

Follow the action at the NEW umeshawks.com