NOTRE DAME — Former Edwardsburg standout Skye Leach never made it onto the court during Notre Dame’s 3-0 volleyball victory over Valparaiso University, but that did not mean she did not enjoy the moment.

Having been to Notre Dame numerous times growing up, Leach was thrilled to walk out onto the court at Purcell Pavilion for warm-ups Wednesday night. She has also enjoyed her freshman year at Valpo as a member of the Crusaders’ volleyball program.

“It has been so much fun,” she said after the Fighting Irish swept Valparaiso 25-23, 25-17 and 25-23. “I cannot even explain what I have gone through and the people I have met have been absolutely amazing. The coaching has been out of this world. I have had an amazing experience so far.”

Notre Dame improved to 3-1 on the season with the win, but the Crusaders gave the Fighting Irish everything they wanted, especially in the first and third sets.

But in the end, Notre Dame’s front line of Caroline Meuth, Sydney Bent, Charley Niego and Lauren Wenzel were too much for Valpo. The foursome combined for 38 kills.

The Fighting Irish defense came up big as well, limiting the Crusaders to a hitting percentage of .067. Kiara Schmidt had 20 digs for Notre Dame, which also got 13 digs from Niego and 11 digs from Nunez. Kristin Baer led the Irish with three blocks assists.

Kara Cooper from nearby LaPorte, Indiana and Bella Ravotto of Mishawaka Marian, led Valparaiso with seven kills each. Ravotto also had 12 digs.

The Crusaders dropped to 2-2 with the loss.

“It was crazy,” Leach said of walking out and seeing the ND logo emblazoned on the floor. “I came here as a kid. So, coming here an actually being able to play them was unbelievable.”

Notre Dame will host Purdue tonight, while Valparaiso is back in action travels to Ohio to play in the Golden Flash Classic hosted by Kent State University.

The Crusaders open up with Idaho State and host Kent State tonight before facing Robert Morris on Saturday.