COLUMBUS, Miss. -  It was an opening day like none other in the modern era of athletics for the Mississippi University for Women volleyball team, in its 3-1 victory over visiting Crowley's Ridge College at Pohl Gym. For starters, it marked the first time in the eight seasons since the University restarted athletics in 2017, that the Owls have won a season-opening match.
 
It was also the first collegiate coaching win for MUW's rookie head coach Breylee Linder. And, if Friday's results are any indication, there will be many more to come for The W mentor.
 
"We had some young players step up tonight which is fun to see so early in their careers," Linder said of her squad that returned just one starter from 2023. "I thought, as a whole, we showed the grit and tenacity that will be needed as we get further into season. We struggled to find our rhythm early in the first set, but quickly adjusted and our confidence kept growing throughout the match."
 
One of those players to have a big night was transfer MC Brown. With apologies to the old UPS slogan, the Owls really found out what Brown can do for them versus the Pioneers. In her first match with The W, the junior had school-records with 22 kills and 47 attack attempts, producing a .362 attack percentage. Brown also added 14 digs to the MUW coffers.
 
Local freshman Megan Neeb – from New Hope High School – had a nice collegiate debut, herself. Neeb matched Brown with 14 digs and also had a double-double by slamming down 12 kills.
 
Returning sophomore Madyson McBrayer – also a former New Hope High School product – turned in a double-digit kills performance with 10.
 
Bailee Schmitt, another sophomore returnee, had a match-leading 23 digs. Freshman setter Madison Wood set an MUW match record with 46 assists, while also making 14 digs.
 
As a team, the Owls hit a respectable .219 for the four sets, setting a school record with 54 kills (was 53 versus Ozark Christian in 2019). The W also set a new school standard with 52 assists (surpassing the previous best of 46, also against OCC in 2019).
 
"We all really appreciated the turnout from the school and community," Linder reflected "It added so much to the energy on the court. It was a great way to begin our season!"
 
Linder and company will look to extend their winning ways at home on Wednesday (Sept. 4) versus Jarvis Christian College at 5 p.m. in Pohl Gym.