The Albert Lea volleyball team opened its season Saturday at the Sideout Classic in the Lindbergh Center at Hopkins.

The Tigers played one match and lost 3-1 against Holy Family Catholic from Victoria.

“It was nice to get the season underway and see how we match up with another strong team,” said Albert Lea coach Lisa Deyak. “With a lineup of young players and players in new positions, I was pleased with our performance.”

Holy Family Catholic won the first two games 25-22. Albert Lea stormed back with a 25-20 Game 3 win but was unable to hold off the Fire in Game 4, 25-16.

Camryn Keyeski led the Tigers’ defensively with 20 digs, and she posted a team-high four ace serves. Kass Jansen added 11 digs.

Julia Deyek led Albert Lea at the net with eight kills, two blocks and 11 assists. Hope Landsman tacked on another seven kills, and Paige Landsman had 15 assists and two ace serves.

Last season, the Tigers finished with a 15-10 overall record, and Holy Family Catholic was 14-14.

Next, Albert Lea will play at Chaska at 7 p.m. Tuesday. The Tigers’ home opener is their fifth match of the season at 7:15 p.m. Sept. 4.

Statistics are in the Scoreboard: Aug. 23 post.