COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – St. Edward's University Volleyball ended the Steel and Silver Volleyball Classic with a 3-0 loss to Adams State on Saturday. Despite the loss, head coach Mary DeJute's young team showed promise as underclassmen stepped into key roles opened by injury.
 
MIKAYLA GRILL was one freshman to answer the call, collecting a team-high 13 kills in Saturday's game. KATIE MARTIN, a sophomore hitter for the Hilltoppers also embraced a new responsibility on defense, registering 17 digs, ranking second on the team behind MORGAN BECKHAM who produced 18.
 
"These young players received a ton of experience on this road trip," said coach DeJute. "They fought hard and see the potential this team has. We are looking forward to the conference season."
 
St. Edward's led early in game one against the Grizzlies, but the Adams State attack proved too much as the Hilltoppers would fall 25-23. Games two and three went in similar fashion as the young Toppers gained valuable experience on a grueling five-game road trip.
 
Another bright spot for St. Edward's was freshman setter, JULIA HARTLEY, filling in for JACLYN BILLIE and producing 21 assists. MADELYN PASHIBIN also assisted on four blocks with five kills.
 
With the loss, St. Edward's moves to 3-6 on the season with a 1-0 record in conference play. Adams State picks up its first win, moving to 1-6.
 
Coach DeJute and her team return home for their next action against Heartland Conference-foe Texas A&M-International on September 17 at 7 p.m. in the Recreation and Convocation Center. Fans who are unable to attend the game can follow live stats and video online at GoHilltoppers.com