This is the eighth time in Cleveland State volleyball's first nine matches of the season that they will travel to play. 

This time the Cougars go to face their cross-town conference rival Chattanooga State (3-3, 0-0).  This will be the Lady Tigers first conference match of the season. 

"With classes, heavy travel and balancing schedules it's definitely tough on the team," head coach Alizabeth Atnip said.  "The payoff is that we can get in a rhythm at home with the bulk of the travel out of the way, and hopefully that gets us well prepared for hosting the region tournament."

The Cougars (1-7, 0-2) are off to a slow start and are currently on a four-match losing streak, but are coming off a well fought battle against Trevecca Nazarene. 

Cleveland State's offense is led by Kaydence Houston and Ella Johnson who have a combined 107 kills on the season.  Johnson also averages five assists per match.  Libero Taylor Hancock plays a big role defensively with 172 digs so far this year.

Chattanooga State's lone sophomore Mckenna Hayes has shined on the court with 101 kills of her own to go along with 91 digs.  Sadie Rich has an impressive 256 of the team's 262 assists on the season.

Last season the Tigers swept Cleveland State winning all four of their matches.  The Cougars look to turn their season around and spoil Chattanooga State's conference opener.  Game time is tonight at 6:30 p.m.