Arkansas Volleyball returns to the road

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas volleyball team returns to the road traveling to Georgia and LSU for Southeastern Conference action this weekend. Arkansas (4-9, 1-2 SEC) opens play at Georgia (7-8, 0-4) Friday at 6 p.m. followed by a 1:30 p.m. match at LSU (6-5, 1-3 SEC). The match with the Tigers airs live on CST in regional markets. “Every SEC weekend is a fun weekend,” said Arkansas head coach Robert Pulliza. “We’re excited. This is a very fun team to travel with and the staff is anxious to see what we can do on the road.” The Razorbacks begin the weekend at Georgia. Arkansas leads the series 13-4 and has won the last five meetings between the teams. But this year, it’s Georgia who has the advantage in the numbers heading into the weekend. The Bulldogs are out-hitting Arkansas .222-.171 with more assists, service aces, digs and blocks this year. “Georgia has the potential to be a very good team,” said Pulliza. “They have Maria Taylor who is one of the best attackers in the country. We know that it will be tough to stop her, but we think we can slow her down and give our defense a chance.” In addition to the defense, Arkansas will rely heavily on the offense of outsides sophomore Heather Royal and freshman Kelli Stipanovich. The duo has played well lately with Royal averaging 2.38 kills-per-game and Stipanovich leading the team with 3.21 kpg. “Our outsides are getting better,” said Pulliza. “Kelli and Heather have really been playing well lately. They need to be steady and score some points for us if we are to be successful.” Also playing well is senior Christina Lawrence who leads the team with a .251 hitting percentage. The Sullivan, Mo., native posted big numbers against No. 10 Florida last week and has been a leader on and off the court for Arkansas. In other news, Pulliza announced that junior Destiny Clark has concluded her Razorback volleyball career this week. For more information about Arkansas volleyball, log on to ArkansasRazorbacks.com.