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CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – The Virginia Tech volleyball team traveled to Charlottesville this past weekend to participate in the University of Virginia’s spring tournament. The Hokies were underrated heading into the weekend, and came home as the tournament victor, going 4-0 on the weekend; Tech defeated Norfolk State, Liberty, Virginia Commonwealth and the rival ‘Hoos. Everyone on the team played well, but freshman Samantha Gostling stood out above all the rest which bodes well for her upcoming sophomore season.

Sophomore Cara Baarendse led the attack, hitting .487 with 20 kills and just one error in 39 attempts. Justine Record hit .375 with 20 more kills, and Gostling had a team-leading 26 kills, hitting .356 on the weekend. Jennifer Wiker hit .278 with 15 kills and spring addition Kelsey Maloney hit .250 with six kills in her Tech debut. Victoria Hamsher hit .416 with eight kills, Erin Leaser hit .400 with four kills and Kirsty Blue rounded out the offense with a pair of kills.

Kirsten Higareda played solid defense, passing a 2.24.

According to assistant coach Shelbylynn McBride, freshman Samantha Gostling “had a breakout tournament. She played a huge role in both the front and back row. Everyone played well, but Sam, Cara, Justine and Kirsten stood out.”

The Hokies will continue to train throughout the spring and summer to get ready for the 2011 fall season. Tech had its best season ever this past fall, culminating in its first ever NCAA Tournament berth, and the Hokies hope to continue to shine as a marquee member of the Atlantic Coast Conference and as a Division I team to watch out for.

For updates on Virginia Tech volleyball, follow the Hokies on Twitter (@VT_VBall).