NIAGARA UNIV., N.Y. - The Niagara volleyball program opened the 2009 season with a 2-0 record for the first time in program history. The Purple Eagles picked up the two wins in straight sets, besting Coppin State and Providence on the opening day of the Niagara Invitational.

Niagara bested Coppin 25-13, 25-17, 25-13 in the morning match and toppled Providence 25-22, 25-21, 25-13 in the nightcap, as five Purple Eagles finished the day with double-digit kills.

"This was the start that we were looking for to give this team the confidence that was lacking last season," Niagara head coach Susan Clements said. "It was really a total team effort because we were able to rely on any player at any given time. We are really starting to utilize the teamwork that we constantly preached during the preseason."

Sophomore Hannah Hedrick (Cincinnati, Ohio) recorded a double-double in each match, giving her 17 double-doubles in her career. She had 10 kills and 11 digs in both victories. Freshman Kari Honomichl (Petersburg, Mich.) also had 20 kills in her collegiate debut, including a match-high 11 against Providence.

Sophomore Michelle James (Cincinnati, Ohio) recorded 37 assists in the nightcap, giving her 68 helpers on the season. The Preseason All-MAAC honoree paced the Purple Eagle offense to a .208 hitting clip on the day.

Sophomore Sam Morgan (Cincinnati, Ohio) assisted in the improved passing game for NU racking up 26 total digs. In the second match of the day, the libero recorded a 95.8 reception percentage (23-for-24).

"Our passing and serving was much improved (Saturday)," Clements added. We had been stressing that all preseason, so it's great to see that evolve."

Sophomore Kathy Bibler (Bowling Green, Ohio) totaled 17 kills during opening day, while junior Shannon Ryan (Fairport, N.Y.) and freshman Amanda Wilken (Cincinnati, Ohio) both added 11 kills apiece.

The Purple Eagles will play for their first ever season-opening tournament championship when they take on Hartford (2-0) on Sunday at 1 p.m.