GULF SHORES, Ala. - The Northeast Mississippi Community College volleyball program has more proof that it is moving forward in the right direction.
The Lady Tigers were victorious three of their four matches at the Alabama Gulf Coast Classic, which was hosted from October 3-4 by Bishop State (Ala.) Community College.
Their lone setback of the weekend came to nationally ranked Lurleen B. Wallace (Ala.) Community College. It is the best multi-day tournament result in the sport's brief three-year existence at Northeast.
"I think it was a good trip for us," said Lady Tigers head coach Brenda Mayes. "I thought we went in with the right attitude. I'm seeing more of the team improving in their specific areas. They're excited for the second half of the season."
Northeast (8-18) started its outstanding getaway at the beach with an afternoon sweep of Bishop State and Gadsden State (Ala.) Community College by identical scores of 3-1.
The Lady Tigers then wrapped up the event with a thrilling 3-2 decision over Southwest Mississippi Community College. It was the second five-set matchup between the conference rivals this year with Northeast claiming both.
Reese Moore had a great week overall, but saved her best outing for last. She had a career-high 22 kills along with two blocks and a sensational .333 hitting percentage against the Lady Bears.
Moore has recorded double-digit kills in nine consecutive contests dating back to mid-September. It was the first 20-plus kill performance of her inaugural campaign with the Lady Tigers.
Eliza Whitenton posted a double-double with 11 kills and 18 digs in Northeast's opener with Gadsden State. She added five service aces against the Lady Cardinals for a total of 16 points.
Whitenton surpassed the program record for most kills in a single season during that match. She currently stands at 317 kills with nearly an entire month still to go in the regular season.
Carine Delfin had double-digit digs in all four matches, including 16 versus Bishop State. Allie Kirkland led the Lady Tigers' efforts at the net with 13 blocks throughout the competition.
Ava Siegel had a season-high 17 kills and a .263 hitting percentage against Southwest. Abbey Hall registered more than 20 assists in the triumphs over Bishop State and Gadsden State.
Northeast continues a busy fall break from October 6-8 with three games in as many days. Among them are home dates with East Central Community College and Northwest-Shoals (Ala.) Community College.