While the scoreboard might say otherwise, it was a good first two games for the Owls volleyball team. The records will show the Owls only winning one set in two matches, losing 3-1 to Endicott College and 3-0 to Wellesley College, coach Bob Weiner said there is much to be happy about.

            “They learned a tremendous amount,” Weiner said. “They were two completely different matches. The first was two teams feeling each other out. I was okay with the way the team played.”

            That first game saw the emergence of what will figure to be some critical players on the squad this year. Freshman Kaylee Deluga (Dennis, MA) led the team with 9 kills after sitting out the entire first set. Sophomore Sammy Dormio (Leesburg, VA) was the defensive cog for the team on her way to 14 digs. Haley Willumsen (Shelter Island, NY) and Katherine Kazazian (Merrimack, NH) combined for 26 assists.

            The Owls' second match was less stellar, but again, provided much to be proud of.

            “That's what Wellesley's capable of,” Weiner said of the 3-0 loss. “We broke down. But we learned a lot from that, and that's pretty much what every game is going to be this year; learning. “

            The second match was little sloppier, with both teams combining for 13 service errors. Alexis Michal (Windham, NH) was the statistical leader with 9 assists in the match, with Willumsen contributing 6 digs.

            While the second match was a swift defeat, Weiner was again optimistic.

            “We broke down but we learned the skill level and speed it takes to play in this league. That's a good thing and it will serve us well.”