NU Opens Spring Season With Two Wins

Boca Raton, Fla. -- The Nebraska volleyball team opened its 2004 spring exhibition season with two wins Saturday. NU, which has been in Boca Raton, Fla., training for the past week, defeated Division II Barry University, 30-24, 28-30, 15-8, before beating Florida Atlantic, 30-19, 30-14.

It had previously been determined that the teams would play two games to 30 and a third game to 15 if necessary.

Nebraska Coach John Cook said he was happy with the Huskers’ team effort and was especially impressed with middle blockers Melissa Elmer and Christina Houghtelling. Elmer posted a match-high 10 kills on a .300 hitting percentage against Barry, and she also had seven solo blocks. Against Florida Atlantic, Houghtelling tallied six kills, hit .420 and posted four solo blocks.

Instead of using a 6-2 (two-setter) offense as they did during throughout 2003 season, the Huskers ran a 5-1 (one-setter) in Florida. Michelle Lynch, who underwent back surgery in January, set the Florida Atlantic match, while Dani Busboom was at the controls against Barry.

"It was very good to see how far our floor defense and blocking have come," Cook said. "I was also excited that we served well. We still have a ways to go on offense, but it was great to have Michelle Lynch back on the floor. She is recovering very well, which is a real positive for us."

Nebraska returns to Lincoln Saturday and will next be in action Saturday, April 10, at the Kansas State Tournament.

"Overall, this was just a great week for training," Cook said. "The team gave a tremendous effort and worked very hard. We got to do a lot as a team, and the players had a great spirit and energy all week. It was fun to be around."