Virginia Union Hands UDC, 3-1, Season Opening Defeat

Richmond, VA: September 10, 2009 - The University of the District of Columbia Firebirds Women's Volleyball Team opened its 2009 campaign with a, 3-1, loss to the Virginia Union University Panthers tonight in Richmond, Virginia. This was also the debut of new UDC Head Volleyball Coach Sheila Weaver, who met the challenge of putting a team on the floor after arriving on campus only three weeks before the start of the season.

With a team of only six players and no substitutes, Weaver's team still managed to make it a competitive match against a team of eight active players that could substitute as often as needed. Lashira Williams led the Panthers to the win with 12 kills, 4 service aces and 12 digs. She was followed by Cheri Wynn with 7 kills and 2 blocks.

Although on the losing end of the match, the Firebirds still led in individual kills with Ashley Jefferson amassing a match high of 13, including 3 service aces. Jefferson also made 2 digs. Carmen Smith added 8 kills and 7 digs, followed by Karen Trevino with 7 kills, I assist, 3 service aces and 6 digs. Joi Upton paved the way for the Firebirds by delivering a match high 22 assists.

UDC will be back on the court at home on Tuesday, September 15, with a return match against Virginia Union, at 7 p.m.