The party punch was not the only thing that got spiked on Saturday, as the volleyball team blanked Lawrence College 3-0 at the Dominican University Star Classic this past weekend. The Pioneers finished the tournament 1-1, dropping their first match to Dominican University. The team came back to secure a second place finish at the tournament and 3-2 season record going into Grinnell Triangular this weekend.

The Pioneers anticipate a strong finish at this weekend’s tournament given the home court advantage and the infamously animated fan base.

“We have huge fans and we really feel it here in Darby. We’re always thankful to them,” said Head Coach Jackie Hutchison.

The gymnasium is always filled with Grinnell’s fans supporting their team and the team members appreciate this.

Olivia Wilks ’12 expressed a similar sentiment. “We have the biggest and loudest bench there is—no matter what,”  Wilks said.

Coach Hutchison has set expectations high for her team, despite the small tweaks and adjustments that need to be made in the future. “We need to tighten up and improve some things—just sort of play smarter. We have a nice 2009 season to build on and so I’m expecting very good things,” Hutchison said.

The players have equally high expectations for themselves, with visions of conference titles. “Our team goal is to win the team conference,” said Anna Day ’12. “It’s a big goal but we’re really excited about it.” The Pioneers foresee a bright future with the help of their fans. Mekdes Kebede ’14 expressed the same excitement visible in the stands each game.

“This team is really prepared to what’s about to come and I’m glad to be a part of it,”  Kebede said. “The Grinnell volleyball team is a contained beast ready to come out, so you better witness it while you can.”