UCA Bears hit the sand with a three-match, three-day tournament hosted by North Alabama on April 16-17, where they finished 0-3 against Southeastern Louisiana, North Alabama and Missouri State.

The Bears started the tournament off with a tight 3-2 loss to the Southeastern Louisiana Lions, but gained momentum with sophomore Ella Layzell and freshman Brook Sharp earned a straight-set victory at No. 3 and No. 5 positions. 

Junior Liliana Irizary and graduate student Anna Jaworski secured a three-set win, yet still fell short to Southeastern Louisiana’s offense as it claimed the remaining three courts and took the overall match after gaining the No. 1 and No. 2 positions.  

Later that day, UCA faced head-to-head against the tournament’s host, North Alabama, and lost 5-0. 

Several courts competed hard, including a three-set battle at the No. 5 position.

North Alabama achieved complete control over all five pairs, which limited UCA’s offensive opportunities and allowed the Lions access to maintain their wins. 

The tournament came to a close on April 17, where UCA saw a 5-0 loss to Missouri State. 

Senior Anna Linskey and graduate student Natalie Blum were positioned as the No. 1 pair and extended their match to three sets in a tightly fought competition, but Missouri State had the final say and secured all five courts. 

Though it was a weekend of tough fights and extended rallies, execution from the Bears fell short in pivotal moments.  

Following weekend matches, UCA will aim its focus on the April 22-24 ASUN Conference Tournament, where they will compete against seven other collegiate teams. 

Last spring UCA lost to the No. 2 seed, North Florida, which were later crowned its sixth ASUN Championship title, in a 5-0 loss.
Stay up to date on the ASUN Tournament by checking out ucasports.com and follow along to watch the Bears’ new season next spring.