Although the decision not to include the team in the NCAA's is disappointing, it may be better for the long term development of a young team to not be included. They are playing more matches and getting more experience than they would in the NCAA tournament. They are continuing to build winning momentum. They have the opportunity to win a championship on the road against a higher seeded team. A win would help the mental development of the young ladies going into next year. They are already proving they were worthy of an NCAA invitation. Next year, they should start the year stronger and not have to deal with a RPI which put them on the bubble this year.
I have a different take on this. We have very good starters right now and losing Comby, who is either 2nd or 3rd in the entire NCAA for hitting percentage will hurt. Though, coach Collier has really stepped up her recruiting game in the last 2 years, so much so that the sophomore team is starting over the juniors and seniors, so I have faith that she has the personnel to take Comby's place.
About playing more matches via NIVC... Yes they play more but the competition in the NIVC is lacking to put it nicely. Playing Alabama A&M was like playing a high school scrimmage match. Troy gave us hell but Liberty was another easy one. (Sorry didn't get to see TCU yet).
The starting sophomore members have now gone two years without tasting the NCAA and let's say we make it next year... They'll be juniors and experiencing it for the first time. I would loved to have seen the ladies go to NCAA this year and at least get it under the belt, even if that meant going home after one or two matches. I feel that the ladies can grow even more if they played a powerhouse from Big 10 or PAC 12 and really play against superb talent and was put thru the ringer. If you watch Wisconsin, Baylor, Minnesota, or Penn State play (to name a few) they're on another level... Clearly in league of their own... And what if we did to them what we did to Pitt? If we were only given that opportunity.,.
Next year, let's say the entire season goes like the second half of 2019... They will be ready. 2020 will be an interesting season to say the least! Truly exciting!
