Roaring Lions Cruise in Conference Opener

September 14, 2011

MCKEESPORT, Pa. - Despite a new season, the third-ranked Penn State Fayette Roaring Lions volleyball team continued their mastery of conference opponents. The three-time defending Pennsylvania State University Athletic Conference champions opened up their 2011 conference slate with a 3-0 (25-8, 25-12, 25-20) win over Penn State Greater Allegheny on Wednesday night. The Roaring Lions (8-3, 1-0) won their 13th consecutive conference match, including 10 straight in the regular season.

The Roaring Lions were led by senior Katie Sleasman (Connellsville, Pa.), who recorded 22 assists and five kills. Sophomores Marney Hillen (Connellsville, Pa.) and Caitlin Fidel (Perryopolis, Pa.) each added five kills, while freshman Marisa Wallace (Smithfield, Pa.) had a career night. Wallace collected 10 service points, including a team- and career-high four aces, while also contributing at the net with two blocks.

Fayette's balanced offensive attack was supported by strong defense from several newcomers, including 10 digs each from sophomore transfer Victoria Kearns (Uniontown, Pa.) and freshmen Samantha Helmantoler (Monongahela, Pa.) and Janelle Cooper (Uniontown, Pa.).

The Roaring Lions return home on Monday, Sept. 19 for a 7:00 p.m. match-up with La Roche College. Fayette swept La Roche 3-0 on Sept. 3 to win the La Roche College Volleyball Invitational. Last season the Roaring Lions and Lady Redhawks split their season series.