Vuls get second shot at Saint Martin’s after 1-1 start

A season-opening loss had to sting, but not for too long.

With a win under their belt, the UH-Hilo volleyball Vulcans have a chance to avenge a season-opening loss Saturday on Oahu when they face Saint Martin’s again at the Hawaii Challenge.

UHH bounced back Friday night to sweep Cal State East Bay 25-18, 31-29, 25-18, getting 13 kills from transfer Sydney Gott, who hit .458. Alexandria Parisian added 10 kills and Bria Beale put down nine as the Vuls hit .229.

Earlier, the season started off well enough, but one dominant set couldn’t be replicated, and Saint Martin’s got the best of the Vuls, 13-25, 29-27, 25-18, 25-15, to continue it’s unbeaten start.

Another newcomer led the way, as Nicole Schmitz tallied 15 kills and 19 digs. UHH hit .091, and the Saints (5-0) won the blocking battle 14-6.

The teams play again at 4 p.m. Saturday.