After a win over McNeese State University and a loss to Lamar University, the volleyball team began preparation for the last two home games of the season against Texas State University on Thursday and University of Texas at Arlington on Saturday.

The 17-11 (4-8 in conference) Colonels competed against McNeese State last Thursday, and shutout the Cowgirls in three games 25-15, 25-20 and 29-27.

“I was very proud of the girls and how they came out for that game,” coach Tramel said. “The team was not happy with the previous weeks so they came out ready to play and focused on taking care of the ball on our side of the court.”

The team then played Lamar at home that Saturday, but were not successful. The ladies were swept away 25-17, 25-23 and 25-20.

Tramel believes that if the team cuts down on errors, everything will usually work to their advantage.

“We have not done a good job with errors this year,” she said. “For the Lamar game, many errors were made, and they were our fault. If we control what we do on our side of the court, we are able to compete with people, however, we were not able to for that game,” Tramel said.

The Colonels last two home games are scheduled for this week. They will host Texas State tonight at 7 p.m. and Texas Arlington this Saturday at 2 p.m.

Texas, who is 20-6 and has only one loss in conference, will be a challenge for Nicholls. According to Tramel, they have one of the best coaches in the country, and the team is always in system.

“They are a solid program,” Tramel said. “History shows they are good, and they will even be switching conferences next year. Once again though, as long as we cut down on errors, we can and will compete. It is the little things that will help so I need every player to show up mentally and physically.”

With a 4-8 record in conference, the next two games are vital in determining if the ladies will make the post-season.

“Knowing this only makes us work harder,” Tramel said.

The Lady Colonels’ future looks bright though, with only two players graduating. Though the two are key players, many other productive players will be returning.

“Our season is not over, however,” Tramel said. “Our record does not show really how good we have been playing. The girls work hard, and they do not pay attention to what others may say about them. We are in our own bubble here.”

Tramel believes that the team has improved greatly since last season, due to players stepping up. She named Jordan Karst and Rachal Yezak as two senior players who have made a difference and will be missed. Sarah Terry, Nancy Taylor and Kathryn stock have also all done well under pressure according to her.

“These and all other players on the team are great kids,” Tramel said. “They are a fun group full of energy. The seniors will be missed greatly, because they are the bread and butter of this team. All the girls are not only involved at Nicholls, but in the community. I am very proud of the team and what the program has become.”