After starting off with a strong 4-2 record, the Virginia women's volleyball team's success seems to have come to a halt.
The Cavaliers now hold a 6-10 record (1-4 ACC) after a promising preseason. Virginia hopes to recover in its matches against N.C. State and North Carolina this weekend after recently dropping two straight two-match weekends.
"We don't have time to change how we've started the season," junior libero A.J. Cushman said.
With momentum from a highly contested victory against in-state rival Virginia Tech a few weeks ago, the Cavaliers seemed well prepared to take on the rest of the ACC.
Four straight ACC losses later, though, Virginia's execution and focus seems to have disappeared.
"Obviously we need to rebound this week," coach Lee Maes said.
N.C. State will be Virginia's first home game since Sept. 19 when the Cavaliers fell to Albany.
The Wolfpack (7-12, 0-4 ACC) also started off strong before losing steam. N.C. State has lost seven of its last eight matches.
To challenge N.C. State, Maes said Virginia will take the same approach that it would if it were playing a nationally ranked team. The Cavaliers prepare meticulously for each opponent, Maes noted, but each player focuses on her own areas needing improvement.
With the chance to play again on their home court, the Cavaliers enter this weekend's matches feeling confident against N.C. State and rival North Carolina.
"We play here, we practice here, we know everything about the dimensions," said Cushman.
The Tar Heels (7-8, 3-1 ACC) will get their shot at the Cavaliers on Sunday. North Carolina is currently fifth in the ACC and only 1.5 games behind Duke, which leads the ACC.
They also boast top middle blockers, seniors Heather Brooks and Ingrid Hanson-Tuntland. Additionally, the Tar Heels have four very strong hitters and an impressive lineup of freshmen.
Although they will be squaring off against a well-rounded Tar Heel squad, the Cavaliers are ready to turn their fortunes around.
"I am so confident about the next coming weekend and changing how it ends," Cushman said. "We're so capable."
Virginia hopes to reignite some of its early-season success Friday at 7 p.m. against N.C. State in Memorial Gym.
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