It was a special weekend for the defending NCAA Division II national champion West Texas A&M Lady Buff volleyball team.
Not only did the Lady Buffs return home and earn sweeps of Lone Star Conference rivals St. Edward’s and St. Mary’s on Friday and Saturday at the WTAMU Fieldhouse, but head coach Kendra Potts and her team were the guest of honor during halftime of the WTAMU football game when they were presented with their 2022 national championship rings in front of the home faithful.
“I just want everybody to be proud of such an amazing story, an amazing life experience that we all got to share together, and realize that it’s very unique, ”Potts said. “Although each year we’re fighting for another one, 2022 was really special and so I want us to be proud of it. I realize that this was something unique that a lot of people can’t say they’ve been able to do.”
As for on the court, the Lady Buffs took care of business by defending their home turf.
WTAMU (13-1 overall, 3-1 in LSC) got things started with a defensive showcase on Friday against St. Edward’s as they allowed just 46 points across their straight-set sweep (25-19, 25, 15, 25-12) of the Hilltoppers.
The Lady Buffs faced their stiffest competition in the first set as they tied eight times before rattling off six straight points to take it.
Emma Becker powered down a team-high nine kills to lead WTAMU in the victory. Torrey Miller and Bryli Contreras combined for 19 digs.
The domination carried over into Saturday’s matchup as they took down St. Mary’s in another straight-set victory (25-21, 25-20, 25-17). The Lady Buffs ended the game with a lockdown third set, allowing just 17 points enroute to another home sweep. Blair Moreland led the way with her 22 assists while former Canyon Lady Eagle Bryli Contreras recorded 17 digs.
WTAMU moves to 25-2 in the all-time series vs. St. Mary’s.
“If I had to sum up why we do this and why this place is so special, it’s because of the love that you have,” Potts said. “Even when you’re done playing here, you’re still a part of it, you still have a piece of it, you still have a say. To be able to see these players, but also seniors from years past and the alumni, that’s special and it’s not like that everywhere.”
Next up
WTAMU continue LSC play back on the road at Angelo State and UT Permian Basin on Friday and Saturday.