August 28, 2023
Women's Volleyball Season Preview
The 2023 Eagle volleyball campaign kicks off on Tuesday, August 29th with a trip to Union College.
Ankeny, IA-- The Eagles will look to build on a successful 2022 season with a core group of 8 returners. The Eagles will also add quality new players enabling the team to meet the demands against a very competitive schedule.
"We have a solid core of players returning including 4 starters. With our setter and 2022 Team MVP Reagan McPeek returning we can quickly install our offense. Returning NCCAA and AVCA 2nd Team All-American senior Rachel Forgie in the middle and All-Region Junior Audrey Glandon at outside hitter we have great court experience. I am confident we can enter the season ahead of our 2022 year finish. Our aim will be to compete for the MCC Conference title and capture the North Region, " stated Coach Nihart." Our goal every year is to participate in the NCCAA National Tournament."
The Eagles will also count on particular players to elevate their production. Junior Sadie Long will have higher expectations at MB. Junior Maddie Hodak will take over the Libero position and the expectation is to lead the team in the backcourt. Junior's Emma Owens and Tina Harms will be counted on to provide blocking and timely offensive attacks. Sophomore Belle Wirges will be inserted as a starter and potential all-around player. Incoming freshman Codie Wirges will be inserted as an all-around player and provide a needed offensive spark at the outside hitter position.
"I look forward to the 2023 squad elevating both performance and results. Our schedule will continue to have NAIA and NCAA DIII competitions, however, we will be determined to meet the competitive level of those teams. When this team determines their individual roles and implements them into our team strategies, we will be a fun team to watch," noted Nihart.
"Our team really appreciates and enjoys our student body and fans who are very aware of the key facets of volleyball. They have been loud and encouraging at our home matches, and we anticipate and need the same in 2023! Our team wants to perform at a high level to provide our fans with a team that not just wins but displays having fun, caring for each other, and demonstrating the disciplines of an athlete in Christ!"
You can view the 2023 volleyball schedule here.
