The Crusaders volleyball team began its 2010 season with a 3-2 victory over the University of Dubuque at Stoltz Gym Wednesday night. The narrow win was a stark contrast to many of Clarke's close losses in 2009.

Seniors Ashley Shields and Abby Nauman paced Clarke with 18 kills apiece. Abby's sister, freshman Betsy, also was instrumental in the win. She added nine digs.

For the Nauman sisters, getting back on the court together was a great experience. The two played together at Hempstead High School.

"I love it," Betsy told the Telegraph Herald. "I missed playing with her."

Chris Miron's squad struggled early on, losing the first set 25-19. But the Crusaders responded by taking the next two sets (25-22, 25-18). After the Spartans captured a hotly contested fourth set by a 27-25 decision, Clarke took the rubber match 15-11.

The Crusaders' Heather Jansen tied a game-high with 28 digs.

Miron's Crusaders will return to action Friday with a pair of matches. They will take on Robert Morris College at 5 p.m. at Calumet College of St. Joseph. They will then play Calumet College at 7 p.m.