The 2017 Eagle volleyball season will kick off this Tuesday night in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa when the Eagles visit Iowa Wesleyan. The Eagles return 6 upperclassmen from the 2016 team including seniors setter Emilie Morton and defensive specialist Shannon Steffen. "We are excited about our seniors and the leadership they will provide our team", noted Coach Lanny Nihart. "Each of them have earned all-conference or all-region teams and will provide a wealth of experience to the younger players."
Faith's roster will include juniors Samantha Betz, Karis Giegerich, and Charity Appell. Betz is a returning outside hitter and will provide strength at the corner, while Geigerich and Appell provide strong right side presence. Sophomore Cara Hodak returns as the libero providing back row experience. "This group has all grown together and found themselves in starting roles. They will need to make great strides this year for our team to advance in 2017. I have confidence they can get the improvement done," mentioned Nihart.
The Eagles were able to sign 8 new freshmen to the 2017 campaign. The group includes local preps
Bekah Smith from Ankeny Christian Academy and
Abby Booth from Grandview Christian. Smith will provide the Eagles with middle hitting, while Booth will provide outside and middle attacking.
Alicia Smith (Owatonna, MN) has potential to play all around, while McKenzie Hanson (Wanamingo, MN) and
Kaitlyn Neuman (Edmonton, AB-Canada) will provide front row support.
Bethany Roberts (Owatonna, MN) and
Emmy Caves (Watertown, WI) will be designated to provide back row support. Jadyn Webster (Robbinsdale, MN) will be the primary back-up setter and provide back row presence.
"It will be difficult to replace NCCAA All-American Honorable Mention senior Alyssa Larson from last year. This group does have the ability to surpass wins from last year. Coach Erin and I are excited about the opportunity to mold the 2017 team. We look forward to battling in the MCCC conference and NCCAA playoffs," noted Nihart. "With the talent infusion, we will consider moving from a 5-1 offensive system to a 6-2 to incorporate 3 hitters and blockers. We have a strong supporting cast in the back row giving Shannon and Cara support help to defend our opponent attacks."
