JACKSONVILLE – The Jacksonville State volleyball team earned sweeps in both of its opening matches on Friday in the Gamecock Classic, improving to 2-0 on the season. 
 
The Gamecocks (2-0) first defeated Gardner-Webb 3-0 before sweeping Alabama State 3-0 in the nightcap. 
 
"We came out with a lot of focus and energy," said Head Coach Todd Garvey. "I thought we played our best volleyball of the year in the first set against Gardner-Webb. In the second and third set I think we lost of little bit of focus. I know we were trying different lineups, but I think we played awesome that first set and let up a little bit in those second two. In tonight's match I thought we did a better job of playing consistent in the first two sets. The third set we lost a little bit of focus again but overall I'm really happy with where we are at."
 
JSU held the Bulldogs to just 10 points in the first set before pulling out back-to-back 25-22 set wins in route to the first match win of the day. 
 
The senior trio of Lena Kindermann, Katie Montgomery and Addie Halverson led the Gamecocks in kills against Gardner-Webb with seven a piece. Senior Lexie Libs totaled 18 assists while freshman Brooklyn Schiffli led the defensive effort with nine digs. 
 
In the night cap, the Gamecocks defeated Alabama State 3-0, winning 25-14, 25-16, and 25-22.
 
A balanced offensive attack once again led JSU against the Hornets. Halverson and Montgomery each had a team-high eight kills while Kindermann and junior Zoe Gonzales each chipped in seven. Libs recorded 22 assists in the contest and Schiffli was once again the defensive leader with 13 digs. 
 
Sophomore setter Macie Garrison saw action in both contests, recording 13 assists against Gardner-Webb and 14 against Alabama State. 
 
"I think we have a lot of relicense," added Garvey. "I think that's one thing we learned in the past two years is learning how to push through in difficult situations and believe in yourself and your teammates. Having that championship experience is huge. You can do anything if you believe in yourself and keep pushing and don't let up. I think that is something they have learned that I am super proud of."
 
The Gamecocks held Gardner-Webb to a .124 hitting percentage on the day and Alabama State to .203 while hitting .389 and .347, respectively. 
 
JSU wraps up the weekend slate hosting Middle Tennessee on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. Admission is free and fans may also stream the match on ESPN+.