With a 2-2 record at the Ohio Northern Tournament this weekend, the Saint Mary's volleyball team reached its goal — to be a real competitor, according to head coach Randa Shields.

"With the outcome, I definitely think Saint Mary's proved themselves to be competitors," said Shields, "I think they impressed the other coaches. I got a lot of good comments from the competition."

"We really made a name for ourselves," said sophomore Jolie LeBeau.

The Belles did just that in their toughest tournament of the season, leading off Friday afternoon by solidly beating Manchester College 3-0.

"What really contributed to our success was our serving," said Shields. "It took the other team out of its offense. When we served well, we won games."

Despite 3-0 losses to Mount Saint Joseph on Friday and to Ohio Northern University on Saturday, Saint Mary's closed the tournament with a 3-1 victory over Thomas Moore.

Leading the team offense were Jayne Ozbolt, Agnes Bill and Emily Nihill. Ozbolt had 7 aces for the tournament and Nihill had 34 kills. Ozbolt and LeBeau were the foundation for the defense. LeBeau led the team with 11 blocks.

Team morale is high following its successful weekend.

"This is a very difficult tournament," said sophomore outside hitter Angie Meyers, who had 44 digs for the weekend. "This was the best we've ever done."

The Belles hope to continue improving as the season progresses. They play at Lake Forest Tuesday.

Shields said she hopes the tournament's outcome will keep team spirits high for these games and for the rest of the season.

"The positive experience can only bring good things," Shields said.

• Notre Dame prepares for Cleveland State
  
• Irish Volleyball splits matches
  
• Belles Volleyball squad proves tough competitors in tourney
  
• Runners place fifth