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Oct. 18, 2002

Box Score

Laramie, Wyo. - In a thrilling match, the Wyoming Cowgirl Volleyball Team (17-4 overall, 3-3 MWC) swept the 16th ranked Utah Utes (14-5 overall, 4-2 MWC) in three games 30-19, 30-28, 20-23, on Friday night in Laramie.

The Cowgirls opened up the match by taking an early 7-1 advantage. After going on a 14-9 run, their lead would grow to 21-10. The Utes pulled within eight points, but that would be as close as they would get as UW took the first game 30-19.

Wyoming jumped out to an early lead, but the Utes tied it up at seven. They would regain the lead the very next point and maintain it for the remainder of the game. Down 26-21, Utah made a 5-2 run to close within two points 28-26, but the Cowgirls would battle and win the game 30-28 to take a commanding 2-0 lead in the match.

In game three, Utah would finally take their first lead of the match in the early going 3-2. It was short lived, as the Cowgirls went on a 7-1 run to open up a five point advantage. They continued to build on the lead, holding an eight point margin several times during the game. The Cowgirls shut down the Utes 30-23 in the final game to take the match 3-0.

"This win really reassures the girls that what we're teaching and working hard in practice does pay off, and this is probably one of the biggest wins in several years for this program," said head coach Jim Barnes. "It was a great job by everyone and they came out ready to play tonight. Sara and Michele really showed their leadership and that's what we need for everyone to contribute."

"This is one of the best victories I've coached in my entire career. But there is still a long way to go in the season, so we're going to keep gaining and expect more each time we go out to play."

Wyoming was led by Michele Rauter and Sara Maytorena. Rauter finished with her 12th double-double of the season with 15 kills, 13 digs and a .324 hitting percentage, while Maytorena added 11 kills, eight digs and a career high eight block assists.

The is first time since Nov. 1, 1997, when both teams were members of the WAC, that the Cowgirls have defeated the Utes, and the 23rd time in the series history. It's also the first time in head coach Jim Barnes' career that he has beaten a Top 20 program.

The Cowgirls will now host the Brigham Young Cougars tomorrow night at 7:00 p.m. in the MultiPurpose Gym.