QUINTIN JAMES
Staff Writer
Coming off a 22-12 season and an appearance in the SUNYAC playoffs where they were eliminated by rival Oswego State, the Fredonia women’s volleyball team looks to take the next step towards a title.
Some of the usual ingredients for success can be found in the team, including a returning pack of starters and high chemistry between them, but the question remains whether or not the Blue Devils will be able to make a serious run at a SUNYAC title.
Assistant Coach Jon-Ryan Maloney said that expectations are high, but added that he has a group of players who are experienced and ready for the challenge.
“Yes, I certainly expect us to make the playoffs. We always keep our expectations high regardless of the ages of the players. That said, we have a lot of juniors and seniors working well together right now,” he said.
Even knowing the expectations are there, the women’s volleyball team isn’t thinking too far ahead just yet.
“Every season we do the very best that we can. If a championship is the end result, great. If not, fine,” Maloney added. “We want to win as much as the next team, but we don’t talk much to our players about needing to win championships. It adds an extra source of pressure that’s usually not helpful. We play and coach simply to do our best.”
Coach Geoff Braun said he understands the expectations, but is confident in his team and the leadership this year.
“As always, our expectations are to earn ourselves a postseason berth and win the conference title. We have a new leadership dynamic that I am excited about, and everyone has worked really hard so far,” he said.
Maloney believes the real first test for the team this season will be a tournament in Cortland scheduled for Sept. 2.
“We haven’t chosen an offense to run yet, haven’t picked our top defensive players, and still haven’t had our first scrimmage,” he said. “Once those are settled and we’ve been through our first tournament in Cortland, we’ll know more.”
One player to look out for this year is senior Megan Collins. She is a two-year captain coming off a junior year that saw her play 27 games (9 starts), and had 136 kills, 18 service aces, 129 digs and 14 blocks two years ago. She looks to be one of the key players on the team this year who will be responsible for leading this time once the season starts.
Other players to look out for this year include junior Kristen Stanek and more, says Braun.
“[Stanek] came on really strong at the end of last season and then worked really hard this offseason. She could have a really strong year for us. We only have twelve on the roster but everyone can contribute. There is no weak link on this team,” said Braun.
All in all, Braun has more than a few reasons to be excited for the new season, with the first home match versus Allegheny looming on Sept. 6. Later on, Fredonia hosts its Blue Devil Invitational tournament on Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 and a round of SUNYAC pool play on Oct. 21 and 22.
“It’s always special to play in front of our home fans,” he said.