Hurricanes Sweep Host Wichita State, Win Tournament

Sept. 1, 2002

WICHITA, Kan. (www.hurricanesports.com) – – The University of Miami women’s volleyball team kicked off an ambitious second season of play by defeating host Wichita State in its own tournament.

The Hurricanes went undefeated in the tournament, downing New Mexico (3-1) and Georgia (3-1) in the first day of play, and then Stephen F. Austin 3-1 before finally sweeping the Shockers in the final contest 3-0.

Hurricane rightside hitter Valeria Tipiana (Lima, Peru/Cristo Rey HS) tied Wichita State’s Jackie Brown in the final match with 13 kills. Tipiana was selected as the Tournament MVP.

Outside hitter/Libero player Jamie Grass (Manhattan Beach, Calif./Mira Costa HS) led the Hurricanes defensively with nine digs, while Wichita State’s Karen Augspurger had 17.

Sophomore setter Mallorey James (Tucson, Ariz./Salpointe HS) led with a match-high 35 assists. The Shockers’ Andee Harting had 17 assists.

Senior outside hitter Marcela Gamarra (Medellin, Colombia/Miami-Dade CC) and James were both selected to the all-tournament team.

UM will host the 2002 Hurricane Invitational this weekend starting with a 10 a.m. tilt Friday between Fordham and Oregon.

The Hurricanes’ first match will be at 12:30 when they square off against Howard. At 4:30 p.m., Howard plays Oregon and, at 7 p.m., Miami faces Oregon.

Saturday’s matches begin with Oregon vs. Howard at 12:30 and then the Hurricanes vs. Fordham at 3p.m.

All matches will be played at the Knight Sports Complex on the Coral Gables campus.

Those seeking information regarding the 2002 Hurricane Invitational or any other volleyball event this season should call 1-800-GO-CANES.