CHARLESTON, W.Va. - In what was undoubtedly the most exciting men's collegiate volleyball match ever played at the University of Charleston, the Golden Eagles fall just short of a victory to start off their first season in the EIVA.

"The guys played the best volleyball of their careers here at UC.  From every player that stepped onto the court, to every player on the bench they were able to create and keep an electrifying atmosphere.  With that atmosphere the guys that were on the court were able to limit their mistakes, and force a George Mason team that has consistently finished in the top of the EIVA into 3 very tight sets, that honestly could have gone either way" said Coach Crane.

Assistant Coach Hanna was quoted as saying, "I have been around this team for two years now, and this is the first time I have seen them all be on the same page.  If this continues we should have a very good season, and with a couple of key players added to the roster next year, look out".  This seemed to be the consensus from not only the coaching staff, but the fans as well, with many commenting that "they were really scrappy", and "they played with a lot of heart".  When asked about these comments Coach Crane stated, "That is always great to hear, and hopefully it has something to do with what we are teaching here".

Eugene Stuart led the way for the Golden Eagles offensively, with eight kills on 17 attempts with only 4 errors, hitting a very respectable .235.  He also contributed one ace and one and a half blocks.  On defense, a total team effort kept the Golden Eagles in all three matches with Darrin DePellegrini, Rajahl Moxey and Ryan Santos each contributing four digs, and Brian Cranston adding three digs.

The Golden Eagles return to action on Thursday against Trinity Christian College in Palos Height, IL, followed by matches against last year's National Championships runner-up Lewis, and the 2015 National Champions, Loyola.