As the IU volleyball team prepares for its tour of Europe in a couple of weeks, it seems as though the Hoosiers are already planning beyond it.
The 2010 schedule is out and ready to distribute to the masses. You can view the schedule here.
While skimming over the team's slate, I noticed a few interesting dates.
While the Hoosiers played host to two non-conference invitationals last season, they'll only welcome visitors for the IU adidas Classic Sept. 3 and 4.
Interestingly enough, the team opens the schedule in Atlanta, Ga., the hometown of sophomore setter Mary Chaudoin (and also a city through which I travel with quite some frequency), at the Georgia Tech Tournament Aug. 27 and 28. There the Hoosiers meet host Georgia Tech that Friday and Alabama-Birmingham and Alabama A&M that Saturday.
The team is also taking a trip to the Northeast for the Niagara/Canisius Tournament Sept. 10 and 11. I'm intrigued by the agreement to play in this one.
IU kicks off Big Ten play Sept. 22 against Purdue in Bloomington. Personally, I think this is a great idea -- trying to build momentum for the rest of the conference slate by beating a hated rival -- and the match should draw nicely.
However, the Big Ten looks to be as unforgiving as it was in 2009. The Hoosiers play defending national champion Penn State, winner of 102 consecutive matches, twice in October -- in Bloomington Oct. 9 and in Happy Valley Oct. 29. As if that wasn't daunting enough, the rapidly emerging Ohio State Buckeyes are the Nittany Lions' travel partner.
In addition to those specific dates come home-and-away matches with all 10 Big Ten opponents, including powerhouses Minnesota, Michigan and Illinois.
IU returns perhaps its most talented team ever with Third Team All-American Ashley Benson, Big Ten All-Freshman selection Jordan Haverly, record-setting libero Caitlin Cox, a deep cast of reliable upperclassmen and two new additions to the back row. Based on pure talent, this team should certainly challenge for a bid to the NCAA Tournament. However, the Big Ten didn't get any easier during the offseason. Can the Hoosiers break through?
