The Lakeland volleyball team traveled to Erie Community College today to play in a tri-match. The Lakers played Butler County Community College in their opening match and came away with a hard fought 3-2 (23-25, 25-17, 21-25, 25-16, 15-10) victory before falling in the nightcap against host Erie, 3-0 (21-25, 18-25, 15-25). The Lakers record now stands at 2-2. In set 1 of match 1, the Lakers started slow and were down 8-1 to start the game. The Lakers fought back before dropping the first game in a tight battle. The momentum that was gained in the comeback of set 1 carried into set 2 as the Lakers carried the play for the win. In the 3rd set, the teams traded points through most of the set until the Lakers committed a few unforced errors costing them the game. In the 4th set, the Lakers were carried by their serving as they went on several nice runs to force a 5th set. The Lakers came to play in the 5th set as they again used great serving with quality blocks at the net to ride to the victory.

Kaitlynn Minarik led the way for the Lakers recording 21 kills (.425 hitting %) along with 16 digs and 3 blocks. Astianna Coppes had a strong game recording 38 assists, 12 kills, 9 digs, and 2 blocks. Jordan Morman also played well recording 7 kills, 6 digs, and 2 blocks.  

In game 2 against the Erie Kats, the Lakers appeared a bit tired coming off of the grueling 5 set match. The team worked hard and tried to push through, but were unable to put it together. Erica Merth led the way at the net for the Lakers recording 5 kills and 3 blocks. Avrie Shenkel finished with 3 kills and 1 block while Astianna Coppes picked up 12 assists, 7 digs, and 2 aces.

Lakeland Players of the matches were Astianna Coppes and Tory Leck; honorable mention was Jordan Morman.