The University of Memphis volleyball team will try to put the devastating 3-1 loss earlier this week to Arkansas State University behind them, as they turn their attention to the Tiger Invitational Tournament this weekend.
April Jauregui, head volleyball coach for Memphis, said she was very disappointed about the team's performance against Arkansas State on Tuesday.
"To be honest, that was the worst game we have played all year," she said. "We didn't play well at all. I couldn't believe how we were playing."
The Tigers host the Tiger Invitational Tournament this weekend at the Elma Roane Field House. This year's Memphis squad goes into the weekend's matches with an overall record of 6-4, going 2-2 at the Field House and 3-1 on the road.
"I think we are progressing well," Jauregui said. "I see progress in them every game. They look good and are improving every game, besides the match against Arkansas State. Chemistry wise, this is the best team I have coached. They play well together and communicate with each other on the court. We still have a ways to go."
Memphis' first match is Friday against La Salle University at 1 p.m. and against the University of Arkansas at Little Rock at 7 p.m.
"We watched video on them (La Salle) playing Temple, a team that we will have to play in our conference this season," Jauregui. "We're preparing for them by practicing and working on our mechanics."
Jauregui said her team is currently struggling with their mental toughness.
"We have to work on the mental side of the game," she said. "The physical side is just as important as the mental side. We have to get mentally tough, but we are physically there."
This team is loaded with talent, and it starts with the freshmen Jauregui said. McKenzie Hayes, a 6-foot-1-inch freshman is one of the Tiger's young standouts.
"McKenzie Hayes has caught my eyes," Jauregui said. "I knew she was talented, that's why we recruited her. She has done a great job. For her to come in and start as a freshman is a great thing."
Hayes was named Freshman of the Week for the American Athletic Conference on Monday afternoon after her performance last weekend, averaging 2.92 kills.
With the Tigers set to play their first two matches Friday and their third match Saturday at noon against Austin Peay University, Jauregui said the fans play a major role.
"It is great that the fans come out," she said. "People have been supporting us. On Saturday, on purpose we play before the football game so people wouldn't just focus on the football game. I am hoping for a big turnout. The students are a big part of our support. It is good to see Tiger Nation at the games."
