NAMPA, Idaho - Texas A&M International Volleyball concluded its first day of the new season, falling to Azusa Pacific University in three sets. 

In the first set, TAMIU drove ahead and took the lead over the Cougars 9-6. The Dustdevils fought to keep the game close, as the game was tied six consecutive times. However, the Cougars took 11 of the next 13 points to eventually take the first set.

During the second set, APU took stride early until the Dustdevils found a way to close the lead to 22-21. The Cougars overcame the pushback and won the set 25-21. 

In set three, the Dustdevils continued to push offensively, keeping the Cougars on their toes by letting them only lead 19-18 in the set. The Cougars went on a 6-1 run and ended the game in a sweep. 

Megan Menchaca and Mackenzie Catalina led the Dustdevils on the offensive attack through the three sets. Menchaca tallied 12 kills alongside Catalina's nine kills. 

Digs were at a minimum for TAMIU as sophomore Lixai Perez led the way with twelve, followed by Hortelan with ten. 

Freshman Emma Lade racked up a team-high 30 assists in the three sets. 

The Dustdevils return for day two in the Northwest Nazarene Tournament for a doubleheader against Emory & Henry at 12:30 pm and Northwest Nazarene at 8:00 pm.