NATCHITOCHES, La. – The Northwestern State Demons take on the ULM Warhawks for Military Appreciation Night in non-conference volleyball action at Prather Coliseum Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. in the home-opener.

The Demons (1-6) started the season with a win against Tennessee State 3-2 before dropping six straight matches. Despite the results, Northwestern State had some bright spots this past weekend at the Tarleton State Classic under first-year head coach Ben Kaszeta. But Kaszeta emphasized his team's need for improvement on the attack.

"Our focus is going to be more efficient in our attacks," said Kaszeta. "We showed some signs of it over the weekend but coming out of the three matches that was something we have to improve on. So that will be a point of emphasis Tuesday and throughout this week."

The Demons also showed a lot of toughness throughout the weekend. They trailed Prairie View A&M 24-19 in the first set of their match Saturday at the Tarleton State Classic before tying the match at 24-24. NSU battled to a 27-27 tie before PVAM held on for a 29-27 win in the set and won the match 3-1.

Individually, the Demons are making their marks.

Jade Longlad continued to move up the ranks in aces. The Calgary, Canada native leads the Southland as she had seven over the weekend for a season total of 18 which is fifth in the country.

While Longlad has been terrific on the service line, the junior has 70 assists including 14 Saturday against Tarleton State, good enough for second on the team.
Regan Hamm added to her team lead in assists. The Redshirt-freshman had 37 for the weekend upping her season mark to 97.

Elsie Sanchez Oliver leads the Demons in kills through seven games. The freshman from Spain had 26 giving over the weekend giving her 60 for the season.

Samaya Wesson had a good weekend at the net with 10 blocks giving her 22 for the season. The Euless, Texas native is sixth in the Southland.

Fans can follow the match with a live broadcast on ESPN+ or at NSUDemons.com for live stats.