The women’s volleyball team proved itself a team for all seasons last weekend, when it placed third in its first spring tournament of the year at Purdue University.

Although success during these tournaments does not directly affect the team’s record, it offers an opportunity to practice skills that will be essential during the official season in the fall.

A highlight of the tournament came when the women beat Purdue, the team that beat them in 2006.

“It was a fun match for us,” Head Coach Anne Kordes said of the team’s redemptive win against Purdue.

Kordes said that a “refuse-to-lose type attitude” buoys the team’s comparatively small number of players in the face of imposing competition.

“We’re not as big, but our kids are skilled . [and] efficient,” she said.

Sophomore setter Whitney Roth said that she appreciated the opportunity to compete against NCAA teams that usually exceed the team’s competitive grasp.

“It’s kind of fun to see how such a small team can come together and beat schools with more players,” said Roth. “Our team’s chemistry allows us to do that. Each member played very well.”

Freshman outside hitter Megan Boken said the chance to practice in the pre-season tournament was enjoyable in addition to offering the opportunity to hone skills for the upcoming season.

“It was really fun to be able to . play together as a team again,” she said. “Hopefully we can capitalize on what we did going into the fall.”

Roth also said that she is excited to see how the group will continue to evolve next year.

“The seven girls we have now are integral parts of our team next year,” Roth said of the women who will join her when the season begins this fall. “We have really good recruits coming [who] will help us as well.”

Before the team moves into the official season, though, it will continue to compete in practice tournaments to cement their winning streak.

The Billikens will travel to Chicago to compete in their next major tournament, which features 26 teams, this weekend.

“Some of the best teams in the country will be there,” Kordes said.