Sept. 25, 2007

BOCA RATON, FL (September 25, 2007)- The Florida Atlantic University volleyball team will once again have to travel this weekend, although it will be by far their shortest road trip of the season.

Due to continuing renovations of the FAU Arena, the Owls began the season with a 13-match season-opening road trip that covered 9,400 miles, six cities and three time zones. Head Coach Jody Brown said the travel was difficult on his team, but that they are looking forward to playing in Boca Raton.

"The girls are really excited about not having to travel, especially after having to play three matches in three days in three different cities last weekend. They can't wait to play close to home."

Brown's squad will play this weekend's matches at Grandview Preparatory School. The school, located at 336 NW Spanish River Blvd. in Boca Raton, has hosted FAU volleyball matches in the past.

The Owls went 2-1 in their first weekend in Sun Belt play, defeating New Orleans and Louisiana-Monroe and losing to Louisiana-Lafayette. This weekend FAU welcomes South Alabama and Troy into town.

"Both teams missed the conference tournament last year, and they are both playing with a lot to prove," said Brown.

Freshman Hristina Markova leads South Alabama (5-8, 0-3 Sun Belt) in kills, averaging more than 3.2 a game. Troy (10-9, 1-1) got its first conference win of the season on Monday night over South Alabama. The Trojans had three players with double-digit kills in the 3-1 victory.

Friday's match against South Alabama at Grandview Prep will begin at 7 p.m. Admission will be free for all fans. The match will also be available via GameTracker on fausports.com