The Westmont Women's volleyball team made their 2014 season debut today against Viterbo University (Wisc.). While the Warriors fell to the V-Hawks (6-0) in a five game match, head coach Patti Cook see's nothing but positive potential in her team.

"We played really well against a very strong team. I was very pleased with our overall effort and I am excited about the bright future that we have ahead of us," said Cook. "It was a battle back and forth that came down to a couple of tight plays and tight calls."

Westmont came out strong in the first two sets, capitalizing on their pin hitters and slowing down their opponents by putting up a solid block.

"We were basically just exchanging blows back and forth. We had more arms overall but they had one arm that was bigger than all of ours. Thankfully we were able to put the brakes on her and kept her at bay pretty well," explained Cook. Viterbo's senior outside hitter Alicia Olson led their offensive charge with a .239 hitting percentage on the match.

As the battle progressed, the V-hawks got into an offensive rhythm and their block started to slowly chip away at the Warriors.

"For our first match of the season, I was very pleased," assured Cook. "Viterbo's experience in playing four matches before we played one definitely showed. But we battled and we didn't give up when they had game point in the fifth game. We kept going at them strong."

The Warriors offense was effectively run by senior setter Heidi Thompson who finished with a game high 51 assists. "Heidi played a really good match. She was dishing up some nice sets, making good decisions and was really hustling," raved Cook.

Alongside Thompson were fellow veterans Madison Serrano and Sydney Striff who each finished with double-digit kills on the night.  "Madison is a continual steady presence on the court and Sydney was strong on the right side—we had good arms in all positions. It was great to see my returners step up and take a leadership role by keeping the team motivated and working hard. "

While the upperclassmen showed up to play, it was freshman Taylor Beckman who stole the show. Though this was the first match of her collegiate career, the outside hitter tallied a team high of 19 kills, along with 13 digs and 2 aces. "I was really impressed with Taylor's play on the outside. To see that much promise from a freshman in the first match of the season is very exciting. She did not let up, she just kept swinging strong and smart," reported Cook.

While the Warriors are now 0-1 on the season, their versatility, athleticism and team chemistry is showing through. When asked for some closing remarks, coach Cook said, "I wasn't sure how we would play together as a team after only practicing for one week, but they far exceeded my expectations as a team and really came together on the court. I am very, VERY pleased. "

The Warriors next match up will be against Rocky Mountain (Mont.) this Thursday August 21 at 10:00a.m. as a part of the Biola/Red Lion Anaheim Summer Slam Tournament.