Arizona Dominates GCU Invitational: Back-to-Back Sweeps Showcase Wildcats’ Talent

TUCSON, Ariz. – Arizona Beach Volleyball had an impressive day at the GCU Invitational. They achieved back-to-back 5-0 wins against Benedictine Mesa and Ottawa, showcasing their skill and teamwork.

Kylee Fitzsimmons and Brooke Blutreich kicked things off with a solid performance. They defeated Taylor Erickson and Kylie Bartel with a score of 21-10, 21-8. Their powerful serves and quick movements kept their opponents on their toes.

Next up, Adriana Nieves Papaleo and Kate Phillips continued the winning streak, overpowering Amaya Evans and Annika Wallace with scores of 21-6, 21-13. Papaleo’s smart plays combined with Phillips’ strong attacks made for a winning duo.

Ashlyn Zilliken and Madeline Walker also shined on court three, beating Megan Hicks and Daisy Motes 21-8, 21-12. Zilliken’s defensive skills and quick saves kept rallies going, while Walker’s aggressive plays secured the victory.

Annie Kost and Brooke Boyko kept the momentum going, delivering a 21-9, 21-13 win against Nichole Gary and Anna Brytkowska. Their calm under pressure allowed them to control the match effortlessly.

To close out the first match, Jamie Streit and Katie Lambeth defeated Sophie Drollinger and Ella Burton with impressive scores of 21-7, 21-5.

The Sand Cats extended their dominance into the next match against Ottawa. Fitzsimmons and Blutreich again led the charge, winning 21-14, 21-17. Their strong defense and consistent offense kept Ottawa from settling in.

Nieves Papaleo and Phillips followed up with a solid 21-16, 21-13 win over Amey Rainaud and Amanda Carlson. Zilliken and Walker continued their strong performance, defeating Eliana Dean and Julianne Hemphill 21-11, 21-10.

Kost and Boyko faced a tougher challenge but still came out on top against Grace Hughes and Shayna Martinez, winning 23-21, 21-11. After a close first set, they took control in the second.

To finish the day, Streit and Lambeth battled back after losing the first set to defeat Shea Marovich and Diana Enriquez 18-21, 21-12, 15-13. Their ability to regroup under pressure was key to their success.

Next up, the Sand Cats will compete against Oregon and Grand Canyon on February 28 in their first matches at Bear Down Beach.

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