SARASOTA, Fla - New College women's volleyball played host for their first preseason action of the season, facing Lake Sumter college at home in an exhibition tri- matchup. 

It's been a long time coming for New College fans, as the event marked the first time the Banyans would hold a contest at their brand new outdoor beach volleyball facility. The project had been in the works for the past several months, and finally reached completion at the end of the fall semester. The timeline gave players ample time to practice on the courts over the last few months of the offseason, but last weekend's exhibition series gave New College the perfect opportunity to break in the new facility.

"We are all really excited about the chance to compete on campus this semester." shared Cassidy Casey, one of the volleyball players who competed in the exhibition. "With our new facility having waterfront views and having that big area for the athletes and coaches we couldn't ask for a better place to kick off the season."

The fact that the contest was a preseason affair did not stop Banyan fans, composed of family and friends, students, and fellow athletes, from turning out in droves for the big day. The beautiful weather complimented the turnout, as fans were able to find protection from the sun thanks to the surrounding trees and pavilion adjacent to the courts. 

Last weekend's informal grand opening of the new beach volleyball facility will serve as the first of many games New College will host this season as they look ahead to their first official home game of their regular season on April 5th.