Stipanovich Dortch play on the beach

SIESTA KEY, Fla. – University of Arkansas volleyball players Kelli Stipanovich and Caira Dortch concluded a successful day at the Second Annual SEC Coaches Beach Volleyball Championships in Siesta Key, Fla., Saturday. Stipanovich, a sophomore-to-be at Arkansas, teamed with Caira Dortch who completed her eligibility this year and played in five matches as part of the event. “It was an awesome day,” said Arkansas assistant coach Kris Grunwald who accompanied the team. “Our progress was excellent. We learned so much and got better from start to finish. I think we did really well for not being able to get outside and scrimmage before we went.” The Razorbacks took losses to Kentucky and LSU but picked up splits with Ole Miss and Florida in the early rounds. Arkansas then suffered a 21-19 loss to Tennessee in the first round of bracket play. “This event is great exposure for the emerging sport of beach volleyball,” said Grunwald. “There were thousands of spectators and we played on the center court most of the day. This event does a great job of showcasing the sport and I think we represented Arkansas and the SEC well.” The SEC Coaches Beach Volleyball Championship is the only scheduled competition for the Razorbacks this spring. Arkansas returns to the gym in August for the start of the 2009 fall season. For more information about Arkansas volleyball, log on to ArkansasRazorbacks.com.