NU begins its run for four straight MAAC titles this weekend when it opens conference play at Siena and Marist this weekend. 

Niagara (3-6) concluded its invitational schedule last weekend at the Bobcat Invitational hosted by Ohio University.

Kari Honomichl was named to the all-tournament for the third straight tournament. The senior outside hitter averaged 2.55 kills per set and 2.9 digs per set during the three match invitational. Honomichl leads Niagara with 124 kills and 3.65 kills per set while placing second in the conference. Redshirt senior Michelle James, who set the programs’ all-time assist record in 2010, reached the 4,000 assists mark over the weekend.  Allison Reis has comfortably moved into the libero role and is ranked 31st in the nation with 5.22 digs per set.

NU starts MAAC play with a remarkable record over the past few seasons. Niagara is 39-2 against conference opponents since winning its first ever MAA title in 2009. NU has gone 17-1 in conference play in each of the last two seasons, with its only loss each season coming against Siena.

The Purple Eagles open their MAAC schedule at Siena on Saturday at 2 p.m. The last meeting at Siena saw Niagara claimed its first victory there since 2003. In the second meeting last season, Siena snapped four Niagara wins streaks, including its 33-match win streak against MAAC opponents.

The Saints (5-6) enter conference play this weekend winners of four of their last six games. The Saints, who are third in the MAAC in kills, assists and blocks, are led by Taylor Akana (3.43 kills per set), Sarah Silverston (9.35 assists per game) and Lesli Akeo who leads the MAAC with 5.32 digs per set.

On Sunday, NU will face Marist (4-6) at 2 p.m. Niagara has dominated the series as of late, winning the last seven meetings which includes the 2009 MAAC Championship match. The Red Foxes start conference weekend on a four-match losing skid. Marist, however, does lead the MAAC in blocks with Mackenzie Stephens leading the way with 1.32 blocks per set.