Gopher volleyball seeks redemption at home after tough losses

The Gopher volleyball team is looking to bounce back after suffering two narrow losses against Baylor and TCU. Both matches were closely contested, with the Gophers losing by just two points in each, highlighting their competitive spirit despite the setbacks. Head coach Keegan Cook emphasized the importance of improving their performance in the early stages of matches to avoid tight situations later on. Junior Julia Hanson has emerged as a key player, showcasing her skills with impressive statistics, including 23 kills against TCU. Injuries have also played a role in the team's challenges, as setter Shaffmaster dislocated her finger during a crucial moment in the fifth set against TCU. Fortunately, her long-term prognosis is positive, and Cook aims to integrate her more into the game plan moving forward. The Gophers are now preparing for a series of home matches, which they hope will provide the motivation needed to turn their season around. Their upcoming opponents, LIU and Auburn, are both teams that participated in the NCAA tournament last season, adding to the competitive nature of the matches. The Gophers are aware that they are now the team to beat, having transitioned from being the hunters to the hunted. This shift in mindset is crucial as they seek to regain their footing in the rankings. With a current record of 1-3, the Gophers are determined to capitalize on their home advantage and improve their standing in the league. The team believes that with a few adjustments and continued hard work, they can transform their close losses into victories in the coming matches.