The Valparaiso University volleyball team opened its 2003 season in style with a 30-21, 30-11, 30-12 victory over Bucknell on Friday afternoon in the Titan Classic held in Fullerton, Calif.

Valpo slammed down 20 kills in the opening game while hitting .360 and added 16 more in game two, compiling a .452 hitting percentage in the game on the way to the victory. In game three, the Crusaders took advantage of 10 hitting errors and a -.207 hitting percentage by the Bison.

Lauren Moulton (Elgin, Ill./Larkin H.S.) led the way offensively for the Crusaders hitting .412 with nine kills, while also adding four blocks on the defensive end. Liz Mikos (Dundee, Ill./Jacobs H.S.) added four blocks, including two solos, while hitting .667 with six kills. Cyndi Norman (Minooka, Ill./Minooka H.S.) dished out 32 assists, while Sara Silcox (Michigan City, Ind./Michigan City H.S.) led Valpo with 16 digs.

Jackie Leahy led Bucknell (0-1) with ten kills, while Brandi Trapasso had 13 digs.

Valpo (1-0) hit .330 for the match while holding the Bison to -.068. The Crusaders also out blocked Bucknell 13-1 and held a 55-43 advantage in digs.

Head coach Carin Avery was able to allow all 13 players to see playing time in the victory.

Valparaiso will return to the court later on Friday evening when they face the hosts, Cal State Fullerton, in a 9:30 p.m. CDT contest.