A 3-4 record has not left the Long Beach State volleyball team in dismay and confusion. Considering the strength of schedule it has dealt with in the early part of this season, the team is more prepared than ever before.
“I believe we’re getting better,” senior middle blocker Alexis Crimes said. “There are flaws, but we’re improving.”
Crimes is one of the team captains, but is undeniably the leader of this battle-tested team. LBSU heads on its second road trip in as many weeks as it travels to Denver to play in the Denver Pioneer Classic.
Waiting for LBSU in the Mile High City is Denver University, a team going through a similar struggle with a 4-5 record. LBSU will face the Pioneers on Friday evening in what could be a statement game for both teams.
“We look at this as a big tournament for us,” Crimes said. “We’re looking for a home run advantage. Whether we are on the road or at home, the atmosphere is the same.”
Crimes said the team is not looking ahead to No. 14-ranked Cal Poly, LBSU’s first conference opponent this season. The team will be too busy with Washington State, the 49ers’ second opponent in the Denver Pioneer Classic, on Saturday. The Cougars boast a 9-2 record and currently have three players with 100-plus kills.
LBSU will contend with Ohio on the same day. The Cougars have a 6-2 record, with wins over No. 13-ranked Minnesota and No. 18-ranked University of San Diego. Nonetheless, LBSU, coming off an impressive victory over Florida State, has the opportunity to rise to the occasion and compile a winning record for the first time this season.
