After a three-match sweep at the Maine Invitational that helped the team earn its first tournament championship of the season, the volleyball team returns home for a contest with the University of Texas at Arlington at 7 p.m.The team is coming off an impressive performance in Maine, beating Cincinnati in five sets on Saturday and sweeping Maine in the opening and championship rounds to complete the weekend. Senior deep setter Calli Corley and sophomore outside hitter Lauren Otto led the weekend attack, pacing the barrage with double digit performances in digs and kills.

Last weekend’s performance was a great confidence booster and it helped the girls in “picking up on what needs to be improved upon,” junior setter Nirelle Hampton said.

Head coach Prentice Lewis said the dynamic performance in Orono, Maine helped build and strengthen the team as it continues the rest of the season.

“We’re working to make ourselves better every time we step on the court,” Lewis said.

The team is excited to have the opportunity to play at home, especially because of the close proximity between UTA and TCU, Lewis said.

“No matter what, if it’s Arlington and TCU it’s going to be a battle,” Lewis said. “I guarantee it’s going to be a good match.”

Some of the players, such as Otto, even have close connections with UTA – making this rivalry even more of a grudge match.

“My sister goes to UTA, my mom and dad both graduated from there, and the coaches were my club coaches,” Otto said. “Knowing the people there makes it more fun. Having a home match against a team so close is exciting for the team because it’s an opportunity for fan support and family support.”

After a grueling five-game loss against UTA last year, the team is eager for revenge and excited at the prospect of another shot at the Mavericks, especially with two spring wins against UTA under its belt.