Beatrice, Neb. - The Spartan volleyball team opened its season on Friday, Aug. 24, 2018, playing in the Southeast Tournament at Southeast Community College in Beatrice, Nebraska. 

Sophomore returners include Kailey Miracky, Jada Perkins, Ashley Porter, Hannah Ryan and Emily Williams. All five played a significant role in last year's turn-around season. And today, they persisted as a core group that will continue to benefit the Spartan volleyball program this season. Jada Perkins started out the morning hot and had 16 kills and only four errors on a total of 25 attempts, she added six more kills in the afternoon. Perkins also added 20 digs to the scorebook. Kailey Miracky played very consistent both in the morning and afternoon matches contributing a total of 10 kills and eight blocks on the day.

Recovering from an ankle injury, Hannah Ryan also played consistent throughout the day, contributing 10 kills, one block and eight digs. Ashley Porter had 38 assists, and 11 digs. Emily Williams contributed seven kills and seven blocks on the day.

Freshman newcomer Lyann Mena played stellar defense even though she has been out the entire pre-season with mono. Mena had a total of 60 digs. Another newcomer, Taylor Miracle, had time as a front row setter and contributed 11 assists, two blocks, and one kill.

"With nine newcomers, the team is still getting to know one another but continues to improve each match. The competition is fierce and these Spartans will give it their all and leave everything on the court," said Head Coach Casey Quiggle.