University of North Carolina Athletics
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UNC Falls To No. 3 Florida
September 20, 2003 | Volleyball
Sept. 20, 2003
Evanston, Ill. - The North Carolina volleyball team suffered their second loss of the weekend after falling to third-ranked Florida 3-0. UNC lost by a score of 16-30, 19-30, 26-30. The Tar Heels were led by junior middle hitter Katie Wright with 14 kills.
"Florida really gave us a challenge," said head coach Joe Sagula. "I think we got better, but we showed our youth and Florida is just an extremely excellent team."
Sophomore outside hitter Dani Nyenhuis had six kills and seven digs, while junior outside hitter and freshman outside hitter Meg Eckert each had five kills. Eckert added seven digs. Sophomore McKenzie Byrd led UNC in assists with 18.
"We lost, but I think its an ok thing," said Sagula. "I was encouraged by some things and hopefully this will give us good experience for the season."
The team's flight to Chicago was delayed because of Hurricane Isabel and the team did not arrive to Chicago until 5:30 p.m. Friday, two and half hours before their game with Northwestern.
"Unfortunately we got delayed in getting here, but I am proud of our team for putting up a great effort despite the challenging circumstances," said Sagula.
UNC ends the weekend play tonight at 5 p.m. (eastern time) against 1-9 Chicago State.
