UNA beach volleyball impressed at the ASUN North Invitational on Apr 5th, showcasing their growth and skill in a thrilling series of matches at Eastern Kentucky University.
The University of North Alabama’s beach volleyball team delivered an exceptional performance at the ASUN North Invitational, held at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) on April 5. UNA’s dominant play throughout the day helped them secure victories against tough competition, including Austin Peay, Central Arkansas, and EKU. The Lions finished the day with an impressive 4-0 record, further solidifying their place as one of the top teams in the ASUN conference.
The first match of the day saw UNA square off against Austin Peay. UNA’s top pair, Ryenne Gepford (#4) and Paige Griner (#2), wasted no time making an impact. The duo’s excellent chemistry was evident from the start, as they controlled the net with aggressive attacks and showed poise under pressure. The first set was competitive, but Gepford and Griner’s solid defense and offensive coordination helped them take the set 21-17. In the second set, their rhythm was unstoppable, and they closed out the match with a 21-14 victory, earning UNA a 2-0 win.
Following their victory over Austin Peay, UNA quickly shifted their focus to Central Arkansas. In this match, Lucy Wedding (#1) and Mabrey Whitehead (#20) teamed up to make a major impact. The first set was tightly contested, with both teams exchanging points and keeping the match within reach. However, Wedding and Whitehead’s consistency and excellent court coverage allowed them to eventually take the first set 21-19. The second set saw UNA’s momentum carry over, as they forced several errors from Central Arkansas while executing some key defensive plays. UNA took the second set 21-15, clinching a 2-0 win.
With a 2-0 record, UNA was up next against the host team, EKU. The Colonels, fired up by the home crowd, started strong, and the match quickly became a back-and-forth battle. Kaitlyn Holbrook (#21) and Hailey Benesz (#14) stepped up to the plate in this match, showing their leadership and composure. Holbrook’s aggressive net play, combined with Benesz’s outstanding defensive digs, helped UNA maintain control. The Lions won the first set 21-19 in a tightly contested affair. The second set saw UNA tighten their grip on the match, closing out the contest 21-13 and completing a 2-0 victory.
In the final match of the day, UNA was scheduled to face Austin Peay once again. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, Austin Peay was forced to forfeit the match. As a result, UNA was awarded the victory, completing a perfect 4-0 record at the ASUN North Invitational.
With the 4-0 record at the ASUN North Invitational, UNA is building serious momentum as they move forward in the season. The Lions will now turn their focus to upcoming conference matchups, looking to continue their strong play and push toward postseason contention. Looking ahead, UNA’s next challenge will come as they face more ASUN rivals in the next phase of the season. With a confident and determined squad, the Lions are primed for even more success as they aim for the ASUN championship and beyond.
