Bristol, Tenn. – After posting the first ever defeat of King on its home floor in the morning, UVa-Wise made it a historic Saturday in program history. The Lady Cavs completed a surprising run to many but second-year head coach Steve Dallman and the players by taking the fifth-game, 15-12, over the Lady Lions of Bryan for the first NAIA Region XII women's volleyball championship.

"This team absolutely refused to lose," exclaimed coach Dallman. "We had two incredible matches today and were able to pull both out."

UVa-Wise split the first two games, 22-30 and 30-19 before edging ahead 31-29 in game three. Bryan came back in a close 28-30 game four. The Lady Cavs improved to 11-1 on the year in five-game matches by taking the Lady Lions, 15-13, in the deciding game to claim the regional title. UVa-Wise also defeated Bryan at home, 3-2, with the final game score of 16-14 on Oct. 12th.

"I am just so happy for the seniors. The leadership and dedication they have shown throughout this season has just been remarkable," exuded coach Dallman. "I wanted it for them so much. The four seniors have done everything they have been asked to do and we would never be where we are without their leadership."

Senior Tasha Viers (Abingdon, Va.) was named the NAIA Region XII Tournament  MVP while both Kristen Salyer (Hiltons, Va.) and Britney Lawson (Rye Cove, Va.) made the all-region team.

Viers pounded 34 kills, dug 15 balls and blocked six attempts. Fellow senior Whittney Lane produced 11 kills and two blocks assists. The other two fourth-year members Leeza Dos Santos and Cara Hamilton had 17 digs and two aces and the other 15 digs.

Salyer hit .425 for 20 kills to go with 22 digs, two block assists and an ace. Lawson dug 47 balls on defense. Sam Puryea dished out 69 assists while digging 20 balls and having four kills. Maggie Berry chipped in eight kills and three block assists to round out the standouts.

UVa-Wise is the first team other than King College to ever advance to the NAIA National Championships, the team's next stop. The Lady Cavs will make the trip to Columbia, Missouri for the championships which will take place from November 28 through December 1. The national championships bracket will be announced on Monday, November 19.