Members of the Wichita State Volleyball team welcomed attendants in pairs with platters of sweets at the entrance of Charles Koch Arena.

At the Preferred Health Systems Multi-purpose center, numerous items awaited bidders.

The Volleyball 101 dinner on Saturday enjoyed a steady attendance from fans and pundits alike, who seized the opportunity to meet and greet players and donated money to support their squad.

Among the plethora of Shocker memorabilia and merchandise, a handful of artifacts stood out, such as a ball signed by the entirety of the historic 2012-13 men’s basketball team — which sold for $400 — and three one-hour group on-sight volleyball training sessions with former volleyball team member and graduate assistant Sam Sanders.

Senior Kristin Byers, a middle blocker, repeatedly expressed enthusiasm for the event, and noted the considerable turnout.

“We’re doing this to raise money for our program,” she said. “It’s fun getting to know our fans.”

While freshman Emma Tynan recently joined the team,where she plays as libero, she expects similar events will help her become further acquainted with her team.

“Fans are getting really interested in us new girls,” Tynan said. “It’ll be really exciting to see how it plays out.”

Outside hitters Katy Dudzinski and Jaclyn Roddy remained by the gate to the center, as they approached bidders with cookies and cupcakes.

“This event is all about creating good relationships with our fans,” Roddy said.

Regarding the upcoming game against Kentucky, the sophomore conveyed eagerness to achieve victory.

“We want to show them what we can do,” Roddy said.

Dudzinski found that the Volleyball 101 dinner was effective in kicking off the series of events that will take place over the next few months.

“This high-energy atmosphere is a good way to start the season before the season has even started,” she said.

After the silent auction, head coach Chris Lamb introduced each of this season’s players. The night culminated in a scrimmage with the entire team.

The volleyball team faces Kentucky on Friday, which will be followed by games against Virginia Tech on Saturday and Butler on Sunday in Lexington, Ky.