NORTH CANTON, Ohio—The Bellarmine University volleyball team opened its 2016 campaign with two victories today at the Walsh Cavalier Classic.  The Knights opened with a straight sets (25-12, 25-16, 25-12) win over Davis and Elkins this morning and took a 3-1 (25-19, 14-25, 25-17, 25-18) decision over Urbana in the afternoon.

Junior Margaret Horihan put up solid numbers in both matches, totaling 23 kills and 18 digs on the day.  Classmate Hayden Dailey also went for double digit kills in both matches, finishing with 21 to go along with 15 digs.

The juniors had plenty of help, however, with senior Ashley Jefferson having a highly efficient day.  The lefty from Louisville totaled 16 kills with a .667 attack percentage.

"I'm really proud of how we performed today," said Bellarmine Coach Jenni Grzebin.  "We were able to get offense from a lot of different people, providing a balanced attack. Today was a great starting point for the 2016 season, and I'm excited to get back after it tomorrow."

Part of Bellarmine's balanced attack was production from three different setters with junior Allie Muha picking up where she left off last year by racking up the assist numbers. The West Chester, Ohio native piled up 50 assists in the today's matches with freshman Teyah Leinenbach chipping in 24 and senior Abby Biggs adding another 10.

Defensively, sophomore libero Jordyn Kuchenbrod led the Knights in digs both matches, recording 34 on the day while adding four service aces. The Bellarmine blocking game was led by junior Bridget Guinane with a solo block and nine assisted blocks.  She also added 12 kills on the offensive end.

The Knights face Fairmont State (9 a.m.) and Glenville State (1 p.m.) in Cavalier Classic action tomorrow. Fairmont opened the tourney with a 3-0 win over Glenville before dropping a 3-2 decision to Davis & Elkins.  Glenville State is still looking for its first victory after losing in straight sets to both Walsh and Glenville State.

BU-DAVIS & ELKINS BOX (HTM)

BU-URBANA BOX (HTM)