The Goshen College volleyball team claimed first place in their opening tournament of the season at Concordia University on Saturday, August 22. With a perfect 4-0 record for the weekend, the Leafs defeated Lawrence Technological University, Siena Heights University, Rochester College and Concordia University.

Freshman outside hitter Whitney Peterson greatly enjoyed her first tournament at the collegiate level. She said, “The Concordia tournament was such a great experience because it gave us an opportunity to learn our strengths and weaknesses and to work through those. We learned a lot from that weekend and grew as a team. Our new trophy isn’t too bad either.”

Goshen kicked off the weekend with a 3-2 win over Lawrence Tech in their first match of pool play. The Leafs played with impressive defense as they racked up 85 digs, 16 solo blocks and 9 block assists.

Adding another match to the team’s five set streak, GCVB won their second match that day against Siena Heights. The Lady Leafs managed to overcome a 7-1 deficit in the fifth set, ending the match with a score of 15-13.

The team came ready to play on Saturday morning against Rochester College as Goshen claimed three straight sets for the first time this season. Middle hitters Lexa Magnuson and Natalie Hubby led the front row that match with 10 kills and 7 kills respectively. Magnuson and Hubby were both named to the all-tournament team.

The tournament concluded with a faceoff between the two undefeated teams for the weekend. Goshen took on the hosting team in front of a large crowd of Concordia super-fans, but this did not phase the Leafs as they defeated their fourth opponent in four sets (25-20, 25-19, 20-25, 25-21). Goshen played well both defensively and offensively in the championship; it truly was a team effort.

Sophomore right side attacker Meghan Gerke was very impressed with her team’s showing. She said, “I think that our performance at the Concordia tournament showed us what our team is capable of doing and what we can achieve this year as a whole.” Gerke also noted that the team’s discipline and heart will set them apart from their opponents this season.

The Leafs travel to Marian University on Friday, September 4th for a 7:00 p.m. conference match.