There's not much that the Penn volleyball team can complain about this upcoming weekend.
The Quakers get a free trip to sunny San Diego as they will partake in the University of San Diego Tournament.
Probably the only thing that the team could complain about is that they will not have too much time to relax on the beach, as they are prepped to take on some of the nation's toughest competition and show them that the Ivy League should not be overlooked.
The Red and Blue began their quest for respect this past weekend in Charlottesville, Va., decisively defeating Radford and Duquesne before falling to a much higher-ranked squad from the University of Virginia.
Penn coach Kerry Major Carr was very pleased with her team's performance in Charlottesville, but she noted that Virginia defeated Penn simply because the Cavaliers were a stronger team.
"UVA picked apart our weaknesses," Carr said. "So we had an opportunity to change some things this week in practice. We're anxious to see how it works against some top teams."
With an improved offensive scheme, Carr hopes that the Red and Blue can put up a good match against a San Diego squad that is ranked in the top 20 in the country. Also sure to be a challenge are contests against similarly powerful Oregon State and Nevada.
In spite of the daunting task ahead, Carr has remained optimistic.
"It should be very challenging," Carr said. "It's good to have a test this weekend from these teams because it will help us get better. Either way, win or lose, the tournament will be a good experience."
By making the long trip out west, the Quakers hope to turn some heads in their direction, much like one of their own freshmen has within the Ivy League.
Rookie setter Linda Zhang played extremely well in Virginia, well enough to be named the Ivy League Rookie of the Week. Connecting on a countless number of kills, Zhang made enough of an impact in her first few games of the season to be named to the All-Tournament team along with Penn junior Cara Thomason.
A junior outside hitter, Thomason was also recognized this week as a member of the Ivy League Honor Roll. As of now, she leads the nation in service aces, averaging 1.17 per game. With her help, the Quakers hope to carry the momentum brought on by strong serves and win out on the West Coast.
