AZUSA, Calif. - In what had been over a year's wait, Cougar volleyball returned to the Felix Event Center on Monday morning. The Cougars took on Alaska Fairbanks, defeating the Nanooks by a 3-1 final score (25-22, 25-13, 20-25, 25-15). Leading the way for Cougars was sophomore Annaka Jorgensen, who finished with 13 kills while adding two aces. Senior Abby Hills had six total blocks while adding 11 kills, and Bailey Henington picked up 24 digs. 

Both teams battled in the first set in which early on the score was tied 9-9. However, the Cougars went on a four point run backed by the serves of Katarina Radisic, allowing the Cougars to take a 16-12 advantage. Alaska Fairbanks made a run and would get within two points of the Cougars late in the first set at 24-22, however, a kill from Amy Hinnant gave the hosts a 1-0 match lead to open the contest. 

The Cougars came out firing in the second set in which they quickly jumped out to a 6-0 lead. Azusa Pacific never trailed in the set and the 25-13 final score put the Cougars up 2-0. 

While the Cougars were looking for the quick three-set sweep, the Nanooks responded in the third set. Alaska Fairbanks took a 20-14 lead, but Azusa Pacific showed some signs of life and was able to draw within two at 20-18. However, the Nanooks would slow the late surge and secure the 25-20 set win.

While the visitors had avoided the sweep, the Cougars ultimately closed the door in the fourth set. With the set score tied at 7-7, Azusa Pacific went on a 6-0 run with two aces from Mina Andjelkovic, and two kills apiece by Hills and Amy Hinnant. The 13-7 advantage gave the Cougars all the cushion that they needed, as the Nanooks would only get within three points the rest of the match.

The Cougars (1-0) will now prepare for their PacWest Southern California pod opener against Concordia on Thursday, March 18 at 6:00 pm.