Hilo, HI (9/3/10) – At the Vulcan Classic, the HPU women's volleyball team defeated Ashland University, 3-2 (21-25, 26-28, 25-18, 25-18, 15-11). The match was the season opener for the Lady Sea Warriors, who rallied from a 2-0 deficit to top the Eagles. Ashland falls to 0-1 on the season.

Sanoe Recca recorded a team-high 12 kills, and Courtney Curran and Brittney Wood combined for 17 total blocks. Kyra Pelayo posted a match-high 31 digs, and Kelly Balanay and Natasha Bell added 11 and 10 kills, respectively.

Brittany Snider finished with 30 kills and 18 digs to lead Ashland.

After falling behind by two games, HPU posted three convincing wins to clinch the victory. The Sea Warriors coasted to wins in games three and four before capturing a four-point victory in the decisive fifth game.

Chelsey Buyuan posted 11 kills, with Bell and Pihana Kea each adding nine digs.

The Lady Sea Warriors return to action later today versus Montana State-Billings. First serve is set for 3:00 p.m.