Gulf Shores, AL - The USSU Eagles women's volleyball team battled through a challenging Gulf Shores Tournament, facing strong competition across four matches. 

In the opener against Meridian Community College, USSU fell 0–3 (17–25, 16–25, 18–25). The Eagles recorded 18 kills and 37 digs, led by Vera Burns with 6 kills and Oriana Morin with 12 digs. Although the offense showed moments of rhythm, Meridian's consistency on serve-receive kept USSU from gaining momentum.

The second match versus Itawamba Community College ended in another 0–3 decision (12–25, 21–25, 14–25). Aubrianna Tucker and Jeya Dupris led the way offensively with 5 kills each, while Kaylee Patterson tallied 8 assists and 7 digs. The Eagles' second set was their best stretch, pushing Itawamba in long rallies and nearly flipping the momentum.

Facing Jones College in their third contest, the Eagles again fought hard but dropped the match 0–3 (15–25, 13–25, 18–25). Dupris notched 7 kills, and Burns added 4, while Morin anchored the defense with 17 digs. Despite the loss, USSU improved its hitting efficiency in stretches and showed better communication in transition play.

In the final match against Pearl River Community College, the Eagles closed the tournament with another 0–3 battle (17–25, 16–25, 16–25). Dupris led the team with 8 kills and 3 aces, while Burns and Tucker each added 5 kills. Morin was stellar on defense, collecting 29 digs, her highest mark of the weekend, and Patterson dished out 9 assists.

While the Eagles finished 0–4 in the Gulf Shores Tournament, the weekend provided valuable experience against quality opponents. Consistent leadership from Dupris and Morin highlighted the team's fight, and the squad will look to build on their defensive grit and offensive execution as they continue the season.

USSU will return to competition on October 17th when they face Pensacola Christian College.