They are noticed. They are feared. They are good.

Fourteen-2 explains only their talent. Firsthand experience explains their potential.

Illinois State, which the NIU volleyball team easily defeated on Oct. 6, draws over 1,000 people on the average at home. They have a successful program and the people know it.

With that in mind, a possible motto can be concocted … “If you beat ’em, join ‘em.”

WANTED: FANS TO CHEER FOR WINNERS.

On Saturday night, prior to the Huskies’ victory over Wright State, WDKB-FM radio (B95) will be sponsoring a pre-game volleyball party at Chick Evans Field House. NIU assistant coach Lori Dailey explains:

“They’re (B95) going to host a tournament, starting at 6 (p.m.); and it’s three-on-three rally score up to five points. (Each serve is a point.) Each game will probably take about three to five minutes. So, it’ll go quickly … a lot of people will be able to get in and play against the DJs.”

Teams of three are to be formed by the fans attending, and those trios generate the possibility of competing against radio personalities Brad Jeffries, Penny Rynberk and Tom Gains. Winning teams receive prizes from C.G. Whillikers and Marchelloni’s.

“I think it’s a great idea,” gleamed Dailey. “It’s right before our match. The tournament itself is going on while the (Huskies are) warming up. You can get the best of both worlds: you can get out and play, and go over and watch (the Huskies) warm up a little bit.

“And it would be like our girls watching the national team play and you go over and you’re so psyched to play, you really think you can do everything that the girls can.”

Except play on their court. Participants in the one-hour merriment will compete on the tartan surface court on the north side of the NIU volleyball court. But that permits another great advantage to the festivities … courtside seats.

“People really ought to show up and give it a try,” Dailey assured. “It’s a great time, playing three-on-three is very exciting. You don’t often stand around and not get to touch the ball. … And they’re raffling off two pairs of (Chicago) Blackhawks tickets.

“You get to see the kids warm up; you get to play yourself; and you get to see the real competition.

“I just think this is fabulous.”

No pre-registration is necessary, just sign up as you walk in. And it’s all free.

Experience what it takes to be a winner.