Sept. 1, 2000
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Senior outside hitter Julie Doud led the Purdue volleyball team to a 15-3, 15-3,15-9 win in its season opener against Eastern Kentucky. Boilermaker head coach Jeff Hulsmeyer was pleased with the co-captain's performance.
"Julie is one of two returning starters and has had to shoulder a leadership position on the team," Hulsmeyer said. "She demonstrates responsibility, so the newer players tend to look up to her. This afternoon she did an outstanding job of guiding this team."
Doud had a near flawless match by hitting at a clip of .538 (16-2-26). The Chandler, Ariz., native also served up two aces and one block solo.
The Boilermakers recorded 45 kills on 76 attempts with only seven errors, resulting in a clip of .500. Purdue picked up six service aces and two block solos.
"We started out a little jittery, but we just had to calm down," Hulsmeyer said. "Once we got into a rhythm, we stopped the erratic passing and blocked well."
In Game 1, Purdue allowed the Colonels only three points. Eastern Kentucky was able to record eight kills on 26 attempts, while the Boilermakers were good for 16 on 25. Game 2 was still all Purdue, as the Boilers recorded only one error.
The Colonels attempted a comeback in Game 3, but were only able to get within two as Purdue held an 11-9 lead. The Boilermakers dashed their hopes, though, by going on a 4-0 run.
"Everyone on the court played a part in today's win," Hulsmeyer said. "I was pleased with the team as a whole. We have really gelled together and that makes everyone play harder."
Freshman Joanna Lowry had an impressive day for Purdue. The secured left-side starter recorded seven kills and no errors on 12 attempts, and was able to tally 10 digs. Jennie Williams, a junior who redshirted the 1999 season, was also good for seven kills.
"Joanna has shown a lot of maturity coming in and securing that left side position," Hulsmeyer said. "I am also glad to have Jennie Williams back in the lineup because she brings so much experience to the court."
Purdue will face Western Michigan 7 p.m. tonight in the IAF. Hulsmeyer looks forward to the match.
"Fans will see a lot different match tonight," Hulsmeyer said. "Western Michigan has a lot faster offense. They will attempt to take advantage of us if we aren't in the right position. They'll be excellent preparation for Big Ten competition."