ALPINE, Texas – Senior Ashley Preuss recorded a match-high 13 kills and University of the Southwest rolled past NCAA Division III opponent Sul Ross State 19-25, 25-20, 25-14, 25-17 Monday evening in non-conference action.
 
The Mustangs (5-11) dropped the first set 25-19, but USW battled its nerves and dominated the rest of the match to win in four sets.
 
"Tonight the team rallied back after a slow start," USW head volleyball coach Angela Franke said following the match. "We finished strong and very proud of everyone."
 
Franke also had praise for sophomore middle blocker Torie Joiner. The 6-footer from Killeen, Texas recorded seven kills and was a dominant in front of the net with five blocks. She also finished with a game-high .538 hitting percentage.
 
"I'm so proud of how Torie Joiner stepped up and delivered her best offensive game to date," added Franke.
 
Senior Karina Grajeda played exceptionally well and added a match-high 34 digs, while fellow senior Shelby Bartley added 10 kills, six assisted blocks and three digs. The Canyon, Texas product also added a service ace.
 
Junior Corina Madrid contributed with eight kills and nine digs, while Essence McGaha chipped in with five kills, three digs and three assisted blocks.
 
The Mustangs return to action Thursday and host Texas College in its Red River Athletic Conference home opener at the Maddox Student Life Center.