IU heads to Alabama Invitational tourney

After splitting matches against Indiana State and Western Kentucky this past weekend, the IU women's volleyball team looks for its first away victory at the Alabama Invitational. First up on Friday will be Oklahoma at 10 a.m. followed by Alabama at 7 p.m. The tournament will continue the following day as the Hoosiers aim to defeat Loyola University-Chicago.\nThe Hoosiers look to build on their victory over Indiana State by using a different game plan from last season.\n"We have more versatile players, players who can play two or three positions and hit a variety of sets. We definitely are a better team when it comes to the simple aspects of the game," said assistant coach Matt Affolder. \nFellow assistant coach Dottie Porch said the difference between this year's squad and last year's is the team's aggressiveness. That said, there are definite aspects of play that can be improved.\n"Serving, passing and defense are the three areas we are looking to improve on this year. We have a much more balanced offense this year. Our defense has picked up and we are playing better than we have in years," said head coach Katie Weismiller. \nWith a much bigger and physically prepared team in toe, the players needed to anticipate what this weekend's opponents might serve up. Both Affolder and Porch recognized Alabama's superior blocking and powerful outside hitting. In addition, Oklahoma excels at driving spikes into open areas on the court, and Loyola-Chicago overall has incredibly tall, strong girls to add to their defense.\nDespite a tough invitational this weekend, IU packs a punch with more than just physical maneuvering.\n"There is an inherent drive with our players that makes them want to keep the ball alive. This is a very exciting team that plays with passion and determination," said Affolder.\nPorch added, "Our team is very strong and we play with a lot of heart with a strong will to improve"