By Robert Weinstock
Guest Writer
SOFIA, Bulgaria — The United States women’s indoor volleyball team made short work of Canada in the Deaflympics opener for both countries, winning 3-0 by scores of 25-13, 25-14, and 25-9 at Arena Armeec Sofia.
Outside hitter Kelly Kyle had 14 of the team’s 36 kills.
Kyle, who plays at NCAA Division I Butler University, displayed an impressive repertoire of hits, including six monster cross-court kills and several well-placed lobs. She also had two block solos and two block assists.
Outside hitter Ann Whited had six kills, and middle blocker Katelyn Reese had five. Whited had five service aces, followed by defensive specialist Kate Fetzer with three. Veteran setter Pia Marie Paulone had 24 assists.
Team coach Lynn Ray Boren was delighted to welcome Canada back to Deaflympics competition after the country’s 12-year absence. He said several of the USA and Canada players know each other from playing together at Gallaudet and in the 2011 Volleyball Friendship Games.
Team USA resumes play at 7 p.m. Saturday against Russia at Arena Armeec Sofia
Highlights
Arena Armeec Sofia was a familiar venue for most of the USA players because they captured the silver medal at the World Championships held there last summer … Team captains are Ludmila Mounty-Weinstock, Pia Marie Paulone, Katelyn Reese, and Ann Whited … During each timeout, a contingent of women wearing shirts with INTERPRETER on the backs mopped the floor, adding new meaning to the phrase “other duties as assigned.”
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Women's Volleyball: U.S. vs. Canada.