Matadors volleyball sweep invitational, open season 3-0

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Arizona Western College (AWC) volleyball is off to a perfect start.

The Matadors wrapped up their annual Chapman Automotive Invitational at The House with a sweep over Scottsdale Community College, finishing the tournament 3-0.

After sweeping their first two matches Friday, AWC carried that momentum into its final match against the Fighting Artichokes.

The Matadors controlled the third set late, closing out the match to complete the sweep and finish a dominant weekend on their home court.

Freshman outside hitter Yery Acosta said the team's strong chemistry and energy helped set the tone.

"I feel very happy," Acosta said. "I feel confident and my team has a great energy. And this helped our team so much. I feel very happy."

Head coach Lorayne Chandler said the team has bought into building a winning culture from the start.

"The girls have just really done a good job of coming in with the mindset that they have a job to do," Chandler said. "We talked a lot about what a winning season needs to look like. And that's of course wins and losses for sure on paper but, we also want to make sure that our culture stays positive. That we're being good team players and so far that buy in is exactly where we need it to be."

The Matadors feature eight freshmen and five returning players this season, giving the team a young group that is already finding its identity.

AWC will look to continue its hot start next weekend when the Matadors travel to Texas for the Wrangler Ranger Roundup Tournament.