DANVILLE, Va. — Averett University volleyball swept Ferrum College 3-0 to open USA South Conference play with a victory on Wednesday night at the Grant Center. The Cougars won 25-16, 25-17 and 26-24.

Averett (8-3, 1-0 USA South) got 13 kills from sophomore Hannah Shields, while sophomore Sarah Smoot had eight kills. Senior Katelyn Holley led the Cougars with 12 digs and freshman Keenan Marks tallied 14 assists as the Cougars used 15 players throughout the match.

Hannah Helbert led Ferrum (3-4, 0-1 USA South) with eight kills.

Averett returns to action this weekend at the Christopher Newport University Invitational. The Cougars face No. 3 Christopher Newport and Bethany College on Friday, then take on No. 4 Juniata College and DeSales University on Saturday.