Aug. 30, 2014 - The annual Concordia Invitational Volleyball Tournament (CIVT) again provided the setting for the Concordia-Chicago Cougars' initial action of the year. The matches against the Concordias of Wisconsin and host Ann Arbor saw the Cougars demonstrate gradual improvement throughout the day, but it was not enough to hold off a pair of three-set losses.

The Cougars' first match came against the Falcons of Concordia Wisconsin after CUW had defeated the hosts in three sets. The Falcons unleashed a powerful hitting attack (.424) in sweeping the match 25-15, 25-14, 25-18. Concordia-Chicago's highlight came in a strong performance by freshman outside hitter Kaylyn Anderson (East Chicago, IN/Whiting). Anderson led the attack with 13 kills and added a pair of solo blocks.

In the Cougars' second match against CUAA, the Cardinals hit a collective .383 en route to a 25-18, 25-16, 25-23 victory. The hosts defended CUC's attack well although Anderson enjoyed another strong performance with 12 kills. The Cougars' serving stepped up in this match with 12 kills including five each from Anderson and Jackie Bartnicki (Chicago, IL/Guerin Prep). Middle blocker Austin Thompson (Morris, IL/Morris Community) provided sturdy defense at the net with two solo blocks and two block assists.

Concordia-Chicago will return to action next Friday and Saturday with four matches at the Northland College Tournament in Ashland, Wisconsin.