Photo Courtesy of Mark Campbell

NEWARK, Del. –The University of Delaware volleyball team will begin its quest for a third straight NCAA Tournament appearance on Friday when the Blue Hens kick off their 2009 campaign at the MCM Elegante Classic hosted by the University of New Mexico.

Delaware will open its season against the host Lobos on Friday night. The following day, the squad will battle UC Santa Barbara and Portland State to wrap up the invitational.

The squad's early-season opposition will pose a formidable challenge and should serve as a good barometer in the early going. Like Delaware, Portland State also earned a berth in the NCAA Tournament in 2008 after capturing the Big Sky Championship.

UC Santa Barbara and New Mexico are also historical powers in the volleyball world. USCB advanced to 26 straight national tournaments from 1981-2006, while New Mexico has appeared in seven during its history.

The Blue Hens, who have won the last two Colonial Athletic Association championships, appear poised to challenge for the top spot in the league once again. Loaded with a roster that is highlighted by three returning All-Conference selections, Delaware boasts an experienced lineup heading into its title defense.

Steph Barry, the first two-time All-American in CAA history, returns for her senior year as the team’s starting libero. Katie Dennehy, a second-team All-Conference selection last year, and Kim Stewart (at right), the 2008 CAA Rookie of the Year, are back as well and will help bolster the team’s offensive attack.

Kelly Gibson, who missed all but one match last season following a knee injury, looks to return to the form that saw her garner first-team All-CAA nods as a sophomore. Starting setter Jess Chason, who was named the Most Outstanding Player of the conference tournament last year, also appears ready to build upon her impressive resume.

Middle hitters Paige Erickson and Michelle LaLonde along with defensive specialist Greta Gibboney round out the veteran portion of the team.

Delaware, which is guided by reigning CAA Co-Coach of the Year Bonnie Kenny, was selected first in the preseason coaches poll earlier this week.