SAN FRANCISCO – The San Francisco beach volleyball squad finds itself in the latest DiG Magazine poll at No. 13, the first time the team has earned a spot in the Top 20.

Last year, the Dons received votes four weeks of the season, but never cracked into the rankings. This year, USF has opened the season on a six-match winning streak, a record only matched by No. 4 Florida State (7-0) and No. 8 Stetson (6-0) in the opening week of action.

"I am very pleased with how our team came out of the gate this year," said co-head coach Gilad Doron. "The past three years of training is showing by the depth and experience we have on the courts this year. It is still very early to determine what the next few weeks will be like, especially since we play all our matches but one on the road.

"I am very proud of our team finding ways to be resourceful and show their resiliency and growth. I am very lucky to be working with Eyal who has been so instrumental to our indoor and beach program here, and his dedication and commitment helping us raise the bar of our program both on the court and in the national eye."

USF takes its new ranking to Sacramento State this weekend, looking to remain unscathed on the sand. First, USF meets up with Santa Clara at 1 p.m. The Broncos, currently receiving votes in the latest DiG poll, opened its season on Thursday with a home sweep over Portland. 

Then, the Dons take on the hosting Hornets at 10 a.m., from the Sacramento Softball Complex. Sacramento State is still seeking its first win of the season, starting with an 0-5 record, including two losses to ranked opponents.

"Our team is excited to be out there competing, rain or shine," noted co-head coach Eyal Zimet. "We got good pre-season sessions in varying conditions and our players grew tremendously both physically and mentally.

"We are very happy with the pairs chemistry that has developed over the short start for the season. Having the first class of players who have been with us since we started four years ago is huge for our depth across the roster. It is all fast and furious for us from here on out to the end of the season, and we are looking forward to staying humble and hungry to learn."