Zias split in opening volleyball tourney

Staff report

CANYON, Texas — Sophomore outside hitter Lauren Frye had two kills and a block in a match-ending 6-1 run which lifted Eastern New Mexico University’s volleyball team to a 25-22, 20-25, 25-21, 20-25, 16-14 win over Colorado-Colorado Springs on Friday in the season-opening Lady Buff Classic, hosted by West Texas A&M.

Later, ENMU dropped a 25-23, 25-15, 25-20 decision to Colorado Meza, which later ended WT’s 31-match home winning streak.

The Zias wrap up play in the event today, taking on Adams State at 1:30 p.m. and New Mexico Highlands at 6:30 p.m. (MDT).

Fry finished with 10 kills, sophomore outside hitter Courtney Lawson added nine and senior middle blocker Bree Lucero of Fort Sumner chipped in eight in the win over the Mountain Lions, who built a 13-10 lead in the final set before the Zias rallied to nail down the seesaw match.

Colorado Springs’ Lauren Hahn led all players with 22 kills and four aces, while teammate Kim Catlett had a double-double with 13 kills and 13 digs.

Three Colorado Meza players finished in double figures in kills, led by Abby Ney with a match-high 12. The Mavericks overcame an early deficit and held off the Zias to win the first set before pulling away from there.

Barron paced ENMU with 10 kills while senior middle blocker Agatha Gibbons had eight blocks, including two solos.