Sept. 1, 1999

Villanova, Pa. – As the summer comes to a close, the Villanova volleyball team is primed for their season opener in College Park, Md. This evening, the Wildcats will take on ACC member Maryland, as the Terps hold a 7-1 series advantage versus Nova. In last year's meeting, Maryland defeated Villanova in four, well-played games, 11-15, 13-15, 15-13, 7-15. The ‘Cats last defeated Maryland on Nov. 7, 1986, in four games.

Numerous challenges lie ahead of head coach Heather Hoehn, who is in her second season on the Main Line. The Wildcats lost four starters, including the school's all-time digs leader Elizabeth Jones and Megan O'Brien, who tallied a 395 kills and 386 digs in ‘98, from last season's 12-16 team. Villanova will battle back with senior Stacey Moline, who tallied 359 assists, prior to suffering a torn ACL that put an abrupt end to her season. Moline, who was an all-Big East rookie team selection in 1997,will be the leader both on and off the court.

"Stacey has the ability to lead our offense," said coach Hoehn. "She has excellent court presence and we look forward to her return."

Adding to the Villanova attack will be junior Breen Eddinger, who returns as the ‘Cats leader in kills and digs. The 6-0, Tacoma, Washington native possesses tremendous strength and agility, and has the ability to be a dominating force in the Big East this season.

"Breen is one of our hardest working players, she leads through example on and off the court," said Hoehn.

Villanova will travel to Blacksburg, Va. This weekend to participate in the Viginia Lottery Hockie Classic hosted by Virginia Tech. In addition to the host institution, the Wildcats will play Northern Illinois and Kentucky.