August 31, 2010
Volleyball Season Preview
THe 2010 Maryville University Volleyball Team.
"We knew Mikaela had a lot of potential, but we're seeing her make strides everyday that she's going to be something special," said Crank. "She will play a lot if not start all of our matches. Beth was recruited to be a middle, but she is such a good volleyball player, she will see a lot of time as a right side as she helps our team in a lot of different ways. She's a very strong blocker and we're comfortable matching her against a team's number one outside and she'll be able to control the pace of the ball.
"Julia was recruited her for her athletic ability but also for her emotional output and personality," he continued. "She's one of those players you love to have on your team because everyone responds to her. She's competitive but keeps everything fun. Megan is a great natural setter, has great mechanics, and needs to get used to quicker pace of game."
Maniaci was an All-State selection in her sophomore year of high school. "She is someone that we will build off of for the next four years," commented Crank.
The Saints have 11 returners and look to improve in a number of team statistical categories as well as improve one to two spots in the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) standings.
"We looked at our team attacking percentage statistic last season and asked ourselves where do we want to be this year," said Crank. "These statistical goals will help us gauge our team's progress and in turn, allow us to see how our individuals are helping us attain our team goals."
If senior Samantha Bock can repeat her success last season, she has the chance to break four career records: matches played, service aces, digs and digs per set. "Sam's defense has been outstanding this first two weeks of practice," stated Crank.
"Kelsey Bock is our best serve receive passer, Kari Blankenship will be a great blocker for us and Ashlee Brockenbrough is still our biggest offensive threat," he continued.
Similar to other GLVC sponsored sports, Maryville will face tough competition as two teams, Indianapolis and Lewis, were ranked in the AVCA's Top 25 pre-season poll released Aug. 18. The Greyhounds received the No. 4 spot and the Fliers were ranked No. 16.
"We'll be a better team this season just by how hard our players have worked in the offseason and summer," said Crank. "Our seven newcomers will push the person in front of them and we want to see how hard we can compete and push our fellow GLVC teams."
"The atmosphere and energy is really positive in the gym and everyone's excited for the season," he commented.
Maryville travels to San Antonio, Texas for the St. Mary's tournament and will open its season Friday, Sept. 3 against Wheeling Jesuit at 10 a.m.
Contact: KatieJo Kuhens, SID
