Nov. 30, 2008

INDIANAPOLIS - The University of Dayton will host the opening round of the 2008 NCAA Volleyball Championships on Friday, Dec. 5 and Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Frericks Center. It was announced on Sunday during the NCAA Selection Show.

Dayton (21-12) will face the Western Michigan Broncos (26-6) on Dec. 5, with match times still to be determined. The winner out of that match will face the winner of Friday's Tennessee Tech (19-12) and No. 16 Tulane (27-5) match on Saturday at the Frericks Center.

"We are really excited to be in the tournament again this year," said head coach Kelly Sheffield. "Having the opportunity to host in the opening round is incredible."

UD was a 2008 host of the NCAA Opening Round for the first time last year when they opened against Lipscomb. Dayton eventually fell to Michigan State in the second round of the tournament.

The Flyers are coming off a 21-12 season in which they earned second place in the Atlantic 10 in both the regular season and in the Conference Championship. Dayton has notched numerous quality wins this season defeating a ranked Illinois team as well as Louisville and Xavier.

"We have a great senior class that has meant a lot to this program, their experience playing in NCAA Tournament will be important for us," said Sheffield. "It will be very special for them to be able to finish their career hosting the first round of the NCAA Tournament."