Sept. 2, 2008

Juniors Julia and Lydia Mailander of the Yale volleyball team have been selected to represent the United States at the 2008 SWATCH FIVB World Championships for players under 21 years old. The twins, who both serve as outside hitters for the Bulldogs, will travel as a beach volleyball doubles team to Brighton, England from Sept. 3-7 to vie for the World Championship crown.

The Mailander sisters were two of only four athletes chosen from a USA Volleyball training group that has been competing this summer for the chance to represent the United States at the event.

"We really just want to go out and play hard," said Julia. However, the magnitude of the opportunity is certainly on their minds.

"It would be great to do well" added Lydia, "since USA Volleyball played so well at the Olympics this year."

The Reno, Nev. natives project that playing at a high level will reflect positively in their performance with Yale this fall. "Being able to play competitively all summer has kept us in shape and in the right mindset," said Julia.

In 2007, Julia Mailander played in 88 games for the Bulldogs. She was second on the squad with 254 kills (2.89 per game) and fourth in digs with 228 (2.59 per game). She also tallied 31 service aces and 35 blocks. Lydia Mailander saw action in 13 matches for Yale last season, playing in a total of 31 games. She totaled nine kills, 37 digs and 10 service aces.

"I'm thrilled for the Mailanders to be given this opportunity to play for the United States", said Yale's Head Volleyball Coach Erin Appleman. "I think this speaks volumes on the quality of student-athletes that we have here at Yale University."

Upon returning from England, there will be no rest for the weary as the Bulldogs open the 2008 season on Sept. 12 when they host Boston College in the Yale Invitational. Hofstra and Colgate will also be on hand for the weekend event. Yale will also play in September tournaments at Albany and defending national champion Penn State before beginning the Ivy League schedule.

report filed by Drew M. Kingsley, Yale Sports Publicity