Aug. 18, 2003

The Missouri volleyball team will hold the annual Black and Gold Match at 7 p.m. on Wednesday at the Hearnes Center. The intersquad scrimmage will be the first opportunity for Tiger fans to see the 2003 team in action.

The Tigers will take part in an intersquad scrimmage in the Hearnes Center. Following the scrimmage, fans will be able to get autographs and take pictures with the Tigers players. Pizza will also be available during the post-match activities.

The Tigers are ranked No. 21 in the USA Today/AVCA Coaches' Preseason Top 2, marking the first time in school history in which the Tigers have been ranked in the preseason poll. Eight players from last year's squad returns to the team this year led by 2002 All-Big 12 selections Mary Lauren Smith, Lindsey Hunter and Shen Danru.

Susan and Wayne Kreklow enter their fourth season as the Head and Associate Head Coaches at Mizzou. They have led MU to three consecutive 20-win seasons and three straight NCAA Tournament appearances.

The Tigers will open up the 2003 season on Aug. 29-30 as the host the 2nd Annual Quality Inn Tiger Invitational at the Hearnes Center. Joining MU in the tournament will be Montana State, Toledo and Arkansas.