FLORENCE, Ala. - UCA competed in a three-match tournament hosted by North Alabama on April 16–17, facing Southeastern Louisiana, North Alabama, and Missouri State. Despite competitive moments throughout the weekend, UCA finished 0-3 against a strong field.
The tournament opened with a close 3-2 loss to Southeastern Louisiana. UCA picked up wins at the No. 3 and No. 5 positions, as Ella Layzell and Brooke Sharp earned a straight-set victory, while Liliana Irizary and Anna Jaworski battled back after dropping the first set to secure a three-set win. However, Southeastern Louisiana claimed the remaining three courts, including two tightly contested matches at the No. 1 and No. 2 positions, to take the overall match.
Later that day, UCA faced host North Alabama and fell 5-0. While the final score reflects a sweep, several courts were competitive, including a three-set battle at the No. 5 position. North Alabama was able to maintain control across all five flights, limiting UCA's opportunities to gain momentum.
The tournament concluded on April 17 with a 5-0 loss to Missouri State. The No. 1 pair of Anna Linskey and Natalie Blum pushed their match to three sets, showing resilience in a tightly contested battle, but Missouri State ultimately secured all five courts.
Across the weekend, UCA showed flashes of competitiveness, particularly in key positions and extended rallies, but consistency and execution in critical moments proved to be the difference.
UCA will now shift its focus to the ASUN Conference Tournament, scheduled for April 22–24, where the team will look to build on this experience and compete for a strong finish.