The Pratt Community College volleyball team began the regular season with two away matches in Chanute, Kan. PCC dropped the first contest to the host team, NJCAA Division II, #19 Neosho, in straight sets 0-3 (21-25; 20-25; 14-25). The Beavers rallied back in the second match against Allen County Community College, taking the victory 3-0 (25-18; 25-17; 25-16).

Pratt's defense struggled early against Neosho's lengthy front court presence. The blue and white attempted to close the gap after several missed serves by Neosho but still fell short in the end. PCC ended the game with only 8 hitting errors as a team. A lack of point-scoring was the main contributor to the loss.

"We've got to do a better job of getting in system and setting our middle hitters consistently," said assistant coach Zac Rambo.

Pratt's offense came to life against Allen County. The Beavers were led by outside hitter Stephanie Reichenberger who had a team-high 9 kills. The ability to keep the ball in play allowed for a dominating performance by Pratt. Allen's struggles to score were initiated by Pratt's effective front row blocking.

"As a group we came together to do a better job of point scoring. We were able to find our middles better which opened up the offense at the pins. Overall I'm pleased with the progression of our blockers into a new system but we still have work to do," said head coach Jenny Mueller.

PCC volleyball continues competition in Lamar, Colo. at the Quiznos Classic Aug. 24. First serve is scheduled for 11 a.m. against Otero Community College.