Aug. 10, 2010
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WACO, Texas - Coming off an unprecedented season in 2009, Baylor's volleyball hit the hardwood in Marrs McLean Gymnasium on Tuesday for its first official practice of the 2010 season. BU is fresh off a trip to the Sweet 16 after posting a 24-10 record and a fourth-place Big 12 finish at 11-9.
Baylor returns four starters and 10 letterwinners from the 2009 squad that finished the season ranked 20th by the American Volleyball Coaches Association. The Bears posted the two highest-ranked wins in school history with defeats of No. 11 Iowa State and No. 9 UCLA, which came in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.
Individually, setter Taylor Barnes and middle blocker Anna Breyfogle, both graduates, became the first All-Americans in program history when they were named to the AVCA All-America Honorable Mention. Both earned all-Big 12 and all-region honors, while Breyfogle was named the Big 12's Defensive Player of the Year. Sophomore-to-be middle blocker Torri Campbell was named to the All-Big 12 Freshman Team.
Along with Campbell, the Bears return a very experienced back-row trio including libero Allison King and defensive specialists Caitlyn Trice and Jordan Rice. The group consists of the three highest returning dig totals from 2009, while King broke Baylor records for single-season digs per set (4.46) and career digs per set (4.21).
Baylor also welcomes five newcomers, including Missouri transfer Kate Harris. Joining Harris is three Texas native, Courtney Windham (Cypress), Emily Klein (Dallas) and Kayci Evans (San Antonio), along with Naperville, Ill., native Sam Skryd.
The Bears open the season at home in Ferrell Center when they host the Holiday Inn and Suites Baylor Classic on Aug. 27-28. BU will play Stephen F. Austin at 6:30 p.m. in their season opener on Aug. 27, then take on SMU and Butler on Aug. 28.
Single-game, group and season tickets are now available by clicking here. Tickets may also be purchased in person at the Baylor Athletic Ticket Office or by phone at 254-710-1000.
