SAINT LEO, Fla.- Making their 2008 season debut, the Palm Beach Atlantic University volleyball team came away with a close 3-2 victory over Northwood University (Mich.) at the Saint Leo University Tournament on Saturday afternoon. Leading 2-1 after three games, the Fish overcame a late Timberwolves rally to escape with the season-opening victory.

With seven freshmen and a new head coach, expectations for the Sailfish in their opening game were somewhat unknown. While the individual statistics may have also been a surprise in the contest, the match resulted in a Sailfish victory.

Sophomores Liz Fugate and Kristin Carroll led the way on the front line as both players turned in double-digit kill performances at 13 and 12 kills respectively. Fugate connected for a .308 hitting clip while Carroll excelled at an even higher rate of .381.

Seniors Brittany Erickson, Emily Ryerson, and Chrissy Gulden all registered six kills each to aide the Sailfish attack.

The teams regular setter for the past two seasons, Ryerson collected 29 assists in the winning effort while also chipping in three block assists. Fugate led the way in the middle for the Fish as she knocked down four total blocks in the victory (one solo, three assists).

Freshman Allie Warren, out of nearby Martin County High School in Stuart, Florida, made a successful debut as she paced the Fish with 15 digs followed by Erickson with 13 and Carroll with 12.

The Timberwolves also placed two players in double figures for kills with Gordana Barac leading all players with 19 kills and Sara Skonia adding in 10 kills. NU setter Lauren Chapman added in 44 assists in the losing cause.

With little time to rest, the Sailfish will hit the floor again later this afternoon as they take on St. Thomas University (Fla.) as they continue action at the Saint Leo University Tournament.