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Gopher Volleyball Season Creating Buzz At Sports Pavilion

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – The University of Minnesota volleyball team opens NCAA Tournament play Friday at home against North Dakota.

The "at home" part of the equation has created quite a buzz.

The Gophers (25-4) volleyball team prepares for the NCAA Tournament, and a first round date with North Dakota Friday night at the U of M Sports Pavilion.

"We believe in each other so much and that really helps us in those tough moments in matches when it's really close. I think that's something that's really special about this team," Samantha Seliger-Swenson said.

Going hand-in-hand with the Gophers success has been what's happening at the Sports Pavilion. They have won, the people have come and it is now one of the ultimate home court advantages in the country.

It has grown organically, winning games and making for a tough ticket. More importantly, making it difficult on any team not wearing maroon and gold.

"That atmosphere at the Sports Pavilion is unlike any other," Sarah Wilhite said. "The fans do a great job of just picking up our energy and cheering loud when we're winning, but also cheering loud when we're losing, to get our momentum."

They will fill it again Friday, and they will see a team that might be on the edge of creating a long-standing, standing room only atmosphere. As the new darling on the sports landscape, the coach thinks he understands why.

"I think if people are feeling connected to what we're doing that's great, but the reason for that would be our athletes, they're authentic," coach Hugh McCutcheon said.

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