Thatcher, AZ – Following an impressive 4-1 showing during the Yavapai College Invitational, the Eagles continued their road trip to take on Pima College and Eastern Arizona College on Labor Day Monday.  The long, hot bus ride south to Thatcher didn't slow the Lady Eagles down as they started the game with intense energy.  The Eagles led throughout the entire matchup against the Gila Monsters and defeated them 3-0 with scores of 25-19, 25-23, 25-22.  Leader for this game were Kahea Nihipali with 11 Kills, Alyssa Simmons with 4 Blocks, Avery Best with 23 Digs, and Ashlee McUne with 39 Assists. 

"They gave us a good fight on our home court a week earlier so we knew that they would be ready for this matchup, especially at their place.  The team was very aware of that going in and they did exactly what they needed to and started the game off strong, holding that momentum throughout," said Head Coach Danielle Jensen.

The back-to-back game against Pima College had the same ending.  Throughout the three set sweep USU Eastern struggled at times as Pima whittled several significant Eagle leads away.   In the end, they found the energy within themselves to close out the set and defeat the Aztecs 3-0 with scores of 25-19, 25-19, 25-17.  Leaders for this game were Kiara Richardson with 11 Kills, Breanne Bitter with 6 Blocks, Avery Best with 15 Digs, and Ashlee McUne with 32 Assists.  

"There have been a few times when the team lets down their guard with a big lead so that is something that we will focus on as we prepare for our next tournament.  The mental toughness of the team has been so exciting to watch but they know that they need to keep those leads that they work hard for," added Jensen.

With a successful seven day road trip the Eagles move to a 10-2 record overall and received votes this week in the national poll.  With only a day between road trips USU Eastern will hit the road again in Twin Falls, Idaho for the CSI Starr Invitational.  There they will take on Missouri State-West Plains, Laramie County, Casper College, and the highly anticipated #3 Miami Dade.

These games can be viewed LIVE on USU Eastern Women's Volleyball Facebook Page this Friday and Saturday.  For a list of game schedules you can go to: usueasternathletics.com.