BELLINGHAM, WASH.-The Seawolves kicked off the 2024 volleyball season against the Viking of Western Washington during the first day of the WWU Invitational. Unfortunately, the team would fall to the host team by a final score of three sets to zero. Regardless of the final score, the Seawolves battled across all three sets with strong showings for the season's inaugural match.

On the offensive side of the net, the senior duo of Brooklyn Jackson and Emily Hernandez paved the way. The pair each added seven kills and three block assists a piece. Both players will be called upon all season long to lead the team given their proven track records as productive starters. 

Brynna Slayton and Jules Tan were also active in terms of setting up their teammates all match long. Slayton posted a game high 15 assists and also added six digs for good measure. Tan was second on the team with 12 assists and helped get the Seawolves offense flowing all game long. 

Across the three sets of action head coach Bear Grassl's squad was neck and neck with the Vikings for much of the contest. The Seawolves out-digged their opponent 47 to 39 and only trailed by three kills. Attack errors proved to be the decisive factor with the Seawolves posting 26 to Western Washingtons 18. 

While the match did get resolved in three sets, the first and third set were separated by a total of five points. It was a solid opening effort that came in hostile territory. With two more games left in the invitational there is plenty of time for the Seawolves to get their first win of the 2024 season! 

Sonoma State returns to the court on Friday when they take on MSU Denver in Bellingham. The match is scheduled to begin at 12:30 pm. MSU Denver should provide a strong test as they currently rank 7th in NCAA according to the American Volleyball Coaches Association. Stay tuned for more high level volleyball!