Oct. 21, 2005

Box Score

DENVER - The University of Denver volleyball squad posted another sweep, taking down conference foe Florida International 30-19, 30-19, 30-26 Friday evening at Hamilton Gym. After a 3-0 sweep at Air Force Wednesday evening, DU kept firing on all cylinders right back into conference play. With the win, Denver improves to 12-7 overall and 5-2 in the Sun Belt.

The Pioneers broke out to an incredible start in game one, reeling off seven consecutive points before FIU could get on the board. Junior Lisa Hunter (St. Louis, Mo.) could not and did not miss in game one with eight kills on that many swings. Sophomore Kim Muller (Ballwin, Mo.) was on a roll from the serving line, accounting for four of DU's points on service aces.

"Coming off a win at Air Force, we were able to keep that momentum and high energy going into this match," said head coach Beth Kuwata. "Similar to Wednesday, it was really important for us to come out strong and establish control early, so even when things got a little tight in game three, we were able to keep our composure and stay on top for the win."

In game two, the Pioneers kept the momentum rolling as the Golden Panthers began to challenge. Senior Amanda Millard (Southlake, Texas) and freshman Kerry Porter (Western Springs, Ill.) led Denver with four kills apiece.

After the break, Florida International roared back in game three, jumping out to a four point lead at 15-11. Denver answered back, tying the match at 19 apiece. FIU would not let up, keeping close behind and hindering the Pioneers from mounting a scoring run with a stifling defense. However, key kills by Hunter and Millard allowed the DU to break away and seal the match. Hunter finished with 16 kills to lead Denver, followed by Millard with 11. Senior Kristin Halt (St. Charles, Ill.) tallied eight digs for the match.

Friday's win marks DU's sixth straight victory at home. The Pioneers had quite the lively crowd on hand as 486 fans attended tonight's match for Denver's "Jam the Gym" promotion. Kuwata appreciates the efforts of the DU marketing staff that organized the promotion and made the night a success.

"There's no question that our fans add so much to each match we play here at Hamilton," Kuwata said. "The DU marketing staff has done a great job getting students and people in the community to come out and experience what Pioneer volleyball is all about."

Tonight's match was also broadcast for tape delay viewing by Comcast. Check www.DenverPioneers.com for the upcoming replay schedule.

The Pioneers have the rest of the weekend off before heading back on the road to meet Arkansas-Little Rock Oct. 28 at 6 p.m., followed by North Texas Oct. 30 at noon.