FLORIDA ST. SWEEPS OTAHKIANS IN TOURNEY

MUNCIE, Ind. -- The Southeast Missouri State University volleyball team fell in straight sets to unbeaten Florida State as the Holiday Inn Express/Nike Challenge tournament opened Friday night on the Ball State campus.

The young and relatively inexperienced Otahkians (1-3) lost to the Seminoles (6-0) 13-15, 11-15 and 5-15. Florida State has lost only two sets thus far this season.

"We are really young and continue to build on our court experience," said coach Cindy Gannon. "I don't see this as a bad loss because the experience we gained today will, in the end, help us the remainder of the season."

SEMO battled the Seminoles pretty evenly throughout the first two sets before Florida State posted an easier win in the third set.

"I think we played really well, much more agressive than last week," said Gannon.

Outside hitters Krista Haukap (18 kills, 10 digs) and Lea Beckemeyer (15 kills, 10 digs) recorded their second double-doubles of the season. Rookie setter Emily Scannell notched 49 assists.

The Otahkians conclude their play in the Challenge with matches today against Ball State and Texas El Paso.