The Trinity International University volleyball team took full advantage of their home court and home crowd as they hosted the Trojan Invite inside Van Dixhorn Arena over Labor Day weekend. By the end of the action, the Trojans (4-4) picked up three big wins to wrap up the first portion of their non-conference schedule.

TIU opened up play on Friday night with a thrilling 3-2 win over Grace College. The Trojans had last faced the Lancers in last season's NCCAA Tournament, where Grace ended TIU's season in heartbreaking fashion. 

After winning the first two sets 25-22 and 25-21, the Lancer struck back winning sets three and four by scores of 25-20 and 25-23 respectively. In the fifth and decisive set, the Trojans rallied late to edge Grace, 18-16.

In their second match on Friday night, TIU took on the Knights of Kentucky Christian University. After grinding through a five set battle only a few hours earlier, the Trojans seemed to have little trouble with the Knights as they won in straight sets, 25-17, 25-15, 25-22. Junior Deborah Kovalczuk led the team with ten kills, as well as four total blocks.

In their lone match Saturday morning, the Trojans faced off with Lindenwood University-Belleville. Like they had done in their nightcap the day earlier, TIU dominated the floor, winning again in straight sets, 25-21, 25-13, 25-13. Senior Sara Andric notched 15 kills, while fellow senior Penina Sao recorded 19 digs on defense.

The Trojans return home to Van Dixhorn Arena on Thursday, September 5 to host the Trinity Christian University Trolls in their conference opener. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM.