ODESSA, Texas – Texas A&M International University got the 2019 season started off with a bang as they swept the University of the Southwest 3-0 (25-15, 25-14, 25-19) in their first match of the Dr. Steve Aicinena Invitational on Friday.

The Dustdevils were led by senior Annie Deininger with nine kills, three digs, two blocks and a service ace. Sophomore Sammantha Herrera posted seven kills with three digs, two assists, a block and a service ace. Freshman Carly Unruh was a force at the net as she blocked seven shots, including three solo blocks. Sophomore Mackenzie Catalina put together a strong defensive performance with 11 digs in addition to her six kills and two blocks. Sophomore Maison Kosse contributed 21 assists with four digs, three kills, two service aces and a block.

TAMIU controlled the first set from start to finish as they opened on a 14-4 run and pushed out to their largest lead of the frame at 20-9. The closed out the set 25-15.

The Dustdevils continued to roll in the second set as they ran out to a 9-3 lead to start. The Mustangs attempted to rally and managed to trim the deficit to 11-9. However, TAMIU counterpunched by going on a 7-2 run to go up 18-11. They eventually took the set 25-14.

USW seemed to have regrouped after the break as they opened the third set with a 9-4 run. The Dustdevils rallied quickly and took the lead 14-10 as part of a 10-1 run. They never looked back from that point an took the match with a 25-19 decision.

TAMIU will face off against Lone Star Conference foe and tournament host UT Permian Basin this evening at 6 p.m.