Boston College Athletics
Boston College
Memphis/Eagle Challenge
University of Memphis Captures Eagle Volleyball Challenge Title
September 21, 2002 | Volleyball
Sept. 21, 2002
CHESTNUT HILL, Mass. - The University of Memphis Tigers (11-4) defeated the Boston College Eagles (7-6) to capture the tournament title at the Eagle Challenge this weekend. Memphis was 3-0 in the tournament, capping the weekend with a 3-1 win over Boston College.
Memphis began the final match with high intensity, quickly gaining a 28-16 lead over the host Eagles. Behind the serve of captain Kim Carlson, the Eagles fought back to score eight consecutive points. Boston College could not overcome the deficit and dropped the first game 23-30.
Memphis continued to roll and gained an immediate advantage in game two. The Eagles tied the score at 10 and continued to play well with accurate passing from Lauren Schwer in the libero position. Once again the score was tied at 25, but the Tigers pulled away to win 30-28.
The Eagles came out strong for the third game after a pep-talk by Carlson. The senior showed her leadership, and she and fellow senior Rachel Bach led the team to a 6-1 lead. Boston College continued to build upon the lead, playing aggressively to frustrate Memphis. Memphis rallied and pulled within one, but BC capitalized on a few key missed serves and mental errors by the Tigers, winning 30-24.
The Tigers were determined not to lose again, and began the first game leading 24-14. Boston College nailed seven points in a row to bring the score to 24-21. The Memphis defense kicked in and froze the Eagles at that mark, eventually capturing the game 30-22 and the match, 3-1.
Liz Aron and Katie Anderson each recorded kill-dig double-doubles for the Eagles, while Tiara Gilkey led the Tigers with 18 kills.
At the conclusion of the tournament, participant coaches selected the all-tournament team. Selected to the team were Brittany Barnett and Tiara Gilkey of Memphis, Liz Aron and Katie Andersen of Boston College and Talia Ogle from Gardner-Webb University. Memphis setter Heather Watts captured most valuable player honors.
