The Lady Rebels take down the McNeese Cowgirls Tuesday morning. (PHOTO BY: ARIEL COBBERT)
Fans gathered at Gillom Center Tuesday morning to witness the Rebels take on McNeese State and watch head coach Steven McRoberts earn his 500th career win.
After winning the Magnolia Invitational over the weekend, the Rebels came into the match with a 3-0 record, one similar to the undefeated start of last season.
The Rebels were off to a great start, gaining a quick lead in set one. After maintaining the lead throughout the set, the Rebels would take set one 25-18. Set two seemed to be more of a challenge as they quickly fell behind McNeese State.
After five straight points, the Rebels were back in the game, narrowing the deficit to 15-12. After displaying amazing effort and skill, the Rebels came back to take set two 25-19. A fire seemed to spark McNeese State after halftime and McNeese was able maintain their momentum, taking the set 25-20.
The Rebels came back strong in the fourth set and determined to secure the win. With a kill by junior Aubrey Edie to make the set point and a final kill by sophomore Kate Gibson, the Rebs won set four 25-16 defeating McNeese State 3-1.
The Rebels’ success can be credited in part to coach McRoberts. At only the start of his second season, the Rebels had their best season start (14-0) in school history and their best record (22-10) in seven years following the 2014 season.
During his 18-year career, McRoberts has been no stranger to success.
Following his head coaching reign at Lubbock Christian University, Central Arkansas, and Tulsa, McRoberts came to the Rebels with a record of 474-163, all of which were winning seasons. McRoberts’ has led his teams to conference and regional championships and appearances in the NCAA tournament.
Aside from his team victories, he also earned many accolades, including Midwest Region Coach of the year in 2011 and Southland Conference Coach of the Year in 2008, 2009 and 2010.
At his current position, McRoberts stands at 26-10 with Ole Miss, with the secure of his 500th win.
Looking forward, Rebel fans are expecting another winning season under McRoberts’ leadership. One of Ole Miss volleyballs’ main goals this season is to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
It’s safe to say that the McRoberts and the Rebels are off to a good start.
