NEW YORK – Led by tournament MVP Allison Cappellino, the American University volleyball team swept NJIT and host Columbia Saturday to go undefeated at the Columbia Invitational.

The Eagles (6-4) began Saturday's action with a 25-13, 25-9, 25-22 victory over the Highlanders. American concluded the weekend by defeating the Lions, 25-22, 25-23, 25-22.

Cappellino averaged 3.0 kills and 2.88 digs per set over the weekend to earn top honors on the Columbia Invitational all-tournament team. She was joined on the team by fellow seniors Monika Smidova and Kristyna Lindovska. Smidova averaged 9.22 assists and 3.22 digs per set and posted a .600 hitting percentage, while Lindovska averaged 2.5 kills, 1.5 blocks and 1.38 digs per set.

Against NJIT, American relied on a balanced offense, led by Lindovska and freshman Aleksandra Kazala with five kills each. The Eagles were also able to take advantage of errors by the Highlanders, who hit -.075 for the match.

"I thought our team competed well," said American head coach Barry Goldberg. "In the first match, we came out and attacked the ball very well in the first two sets, as our starters executed our game plan. In set three, we gave other people chances, and it was good to see which players are preparing to help us in future matches."

AU found itself in close sets against the host Lions, with 19 tie scores and six total lead changes. However, American was able to finish strong in each set to earn the sweep.

Cappellino recorded 12 kills and 15 digs to lead the Eagles against Columbia, while Lindovska added 10 kills. Smidova also had a solid effort, recording 32 assists, 10 digs and six kills on eight attempts.

"Columbia came out aggressive and we continued to respond. We did a decent job running our offense and their defense responded to make it a really good match. In each of the three sets, near the 20-point mark, we made the necessary plays to close out the win. Anytime you can be on the road and beat a decent team, it is an important marker for our team's future competitions."

The Eagles return home next weekend, as they host the AU Volleyball Classic, Sept. 18-19. American will face William & Mary on Friday evening, while taking on UMBC and Virginia on Saturday.