LIVINGSTON, Ala. — After back-to-back hard-fought matches at home, the University of West Alabama volleyball team is set to hit the road for a two-match trip through Tennessee. The Tigers will face Union University on Friday at 6 p.m. in Jackson, followed by a Saturday matchup at 2 p.m. against Christian Brothers in Memphis.
UWA (6-10, 2-7 GSC) is coming off a competitive stretch of play that included a strong showing against No. 16 West Florida and a four-set battle with Valdosta State. Against the nationally ranked Argonauts, the Tigers opened with an impressive first-set win, fueled by balanced play from Cadence Goeden, Klára Bobánová, and Raven Grant. Goeden's consistent attacking presence, paired with Katerina Korre's defensive leadership and Bobánová's versatility at the net, has been key to UWA's offensive rhythm.
Freshman setter Jana Petkovic has been a major bright spot for the Tigers, earning GSC Freshman of the Week honors after totaling 72 assists and 30 digs across three matches last week. Petkovic ranks third in the conference with 547 assists, averaging 9.12 per set—numbers that highlight her impact in running UWA's offense.
As the Tigers prepare for the Tennessee swing, they'll look to convert their recent energy into wins. Union (2-14, 0-9 GSC) enters the weekend looking for its first conference victory, led by Elizabeth Gilbert and Parker Goff, who each tallied 11 kills in their latest outing against Lee. Setter Kylie Creech has guided the Bulldogs' attack with consistency, recording 23 assists in that match.
Christian Brothers (7-13, 2-7 GSC) will also be looking to protect home court after a straight-sets loss to Trevecca Nazarene. The Lady Buccaneers are powered by Addison Waggoner, who leads the team in kills, and setter Carleiny Morillo, who continues to pace the offense with double-double performances.
With several close contests under their belt and standout performances across the lineup, the Tigers aim to turn their recent flashes of strong play into full-match consistency. As conference play heats up, UWA will look to find its rhythm, tighten execution in key moments, and build momentum heading into the second half of the Gulf South schedule. The Tennessee trip provides an opportunity for the Tigers to regroup, regain confidence, and make a push in the GSC standings as they continue to develop their identity on the court.
