Michigan State University Athletics
Spartan Volleyball Ready For NCAA Tournament
12/6/2002 12:00:00 AM | Volleyball
Dec. 6, 2002
NOTRE DAME, Ind. - The Michigan State volleyball team practiced Friday at Notre Dame's Joyce Center in preparation for its NCAA First Round matchup vs. George Mason Saturday, Dec. 7 at 4 p.m. The team arrived Thursday night in South Bend. Saturday's match against the Patriots can be heard on WVDN Radio 730 AM and also at www.msuspartans.com with John Kreger calling the play-by-play action.
MSU head coach Chuck Erbe took part in a press conference before practice in the afternoon. Following is an excerpt from the press conference:
"Obviously, we're just as pleased as everyone else to be here," said Erbe, who has led the Spartans to nine straight NCAA Tournament appearances. "Just two weeks ago our postseason chances were in doubt. There was a logjam in the Big Ten standings, and we were fortunate to get fifth place. Our team overcame the adversity when it had to in the last two weeks. The team had a choice - to either go forward or backward, and the players chose to go forward. We played some really strong matches at the end against some very strong competition. In terms of the NCAA Tournament, I don't think it matters what conference you play in. If you play a tough schedule, your players will be ready."
The winner of the MSU-George Mason match will face either host Notre Dame or the College of Charleston Sunday, Dec. 8 at 4 p.m.
