(Parkville, Mo.) The University of Saint Mary Spires open their season in competitive fashion on day one of the Park University Tournament. The Spires fought hard against the nationally recognized Park Pirates, but fell in straight sets (16-25, 22-25, 24-26) on Friday afternoon at Breckon Sports Center.
 
The Spires were led by junior outside hitter, MJ Stephens, with an impressive 13 kills in the nail-biting match, with fellow junior, Chloe Byrd, close behind with 8 kills on the day. USM looks to bounce back strong on the final day of the Park U. Tournament against Wayland Baptist at 10:00 a.m. and Oklahoma City University at 2:00 p.m.
 
Your Spires will open up at home against Graceland University on Tuesday, August 26^th at the Ryan Sports Center at 7:00 p.m.