NASHVILLE— Tennessee State University head volleyball coach Donika Sutton and her Tigers (8-1) had a huge bounce back going 3-0 in the University of Texas-Arlington Tournament this past weekend. This was a needed set of wins. After starting the season 5-0, TSU suffered their first loss in their home opener against the University of Evansville. 
 
"It was very important for us to get back on top, but it was more important for us to compete," said Sutton. "We stayed focused and locked in. The score will take care of itself. I am really excited for us to get into film. I think we will be fine as long as we play our game."
 
Seniors Aniya Williams and Gina Rivera-Ortiz along with junior Sofia Garcia-Guerrios were named to the all-tournament team. Williams, a native of nearby Cedar Hill, Texas was named the most valuable player. 
 
"Going back home was fun," said Williams. "I got to see all of my family and friends. It felt good. It felt a reset button. It was very important for us to get back on track. We all played well and was on the same page as a team. Sofia was setting us up well and Gina is one of the top defensive specialists in our conference."
 
Getting the three wins this past weekend now sets them up for their Ohio Valley Conference opener against Belmont University on Tuesday. 
 
Tuesday's matchup against Belmont (2-8) will be the match number 40 between the two teams all time. Belmont holds a 25-14 edge in wins against the Tigers. Last season, the TSU lost both games to Belmont. With the strong start to their season, TSU hopes they can get off to a fast start in the OVC.
 
"I am really excited of what we have for our future," said Garcia-Guerrios. "Just trusting the process, putting a lot of effort in practice and giving our heart on the court. I think we are ready for the challenge of our conference. We will have a good test against Belmont."
 
The game will be at Belmont's Curb Event Center (6pm ESPN+). It will be the conference opener for both schools. TSU's first home game was well attended. The team hopes that their fans will travel cross-town to cheer them on. 
 
"It will be a tough game, Belmont has always been a tough opponent," said Rivera-Ortiz. "Our home game was fun. Our fans showed up and gave us energy. We want them to come to Belmont and help us out. We would greatly appreciate the support."