While most students got to go home for the holidays, the Tennessee volleyball team was on the court preparing for their final games in SEC regular season play.

They took on Texas A&M on Nov. 21 and Mississippi State on Nov. 23.

In the last meeting between Tennessee and Texas A&M, Tennessee pulled out the sweep. However, this past Wednesday the Lady Vols weren’t as fortunate. They took in a thrilling five-setter (15-25, 25-22, 25-20, 27-29,15-9) with the Aggies. Alisia Kastmo lead the Aggies with 18 kills and 12 digs, but Lady Vol outside hitter Kelsey Robinson matched that with 18 kills and 15 digs. Kayla Jeter had 15 kills, followed by Leslie Cikra with 12.

Freshman Bianca Arellano had an impressive 11 digs to help contribute in the five sets.

“We played well and executed, we just didn’t get the results,” said Arellano. After a heartfelt lost, the Lady Vols had to push on to finish out their last regular season SEC match.

Despite the loss to the Aggies, Tennessee pulled out a 3-0 sweep against Mississippi State on Friday.

“This is exactly what we needed to bounce back from our loss. Nothing is more rewarding then winning your last home game.” Arellano said.

Arellano had six digs and one assist. Two Lady Vols had double-digit kills, Robinson with 15 and DeeDee Harrison with 14. Tennessee managed 13 team blocks compared to Mississippi State’s five.

“I’m so proud to be a part of this team. Contributing and helping my teammates be successful is a great feeling,” she said.

The Lady Vols ended up the season 22-7 (15-5 SEC).

Unfortunately, the team could not defend their SEC title, but their post-season fate continues after the NCAA selection show on Sunday.

“We can compete with anybody,” Robinson said. “Once it gets to tournament time, it’s anyone’s game.”