Though we didn't come off the week with any wins, we definitely have made progress as a team. The first two matches against Montana Tech and Montana Western were discouraging because of all the hard work these fine ladies have been putting in at the gym. But that's not to say we didn't get better as a team. We finally found a starting line-up we like and we're going to role with that in practice and in the upcoming matches. These girls are not a team to take lightly; they are going to come out of their shell and surprise everyone in time. This team is exciting to coach because we have so much athleticism and potential on the court. Everyone who is on this team is focused, determined to succeed, mentally tough, hardworking and in love with the game of volleyball. That's exactly why I recruited them and that's why they are on this team. Once everyone knows their role on the court, I think we will be seeing good things.
In regards to last week, I saw improvement. I keep telling my players to keep their heads high, we are learning and getting better. As long as we learn something from our losses, they are not losses at all.
That last match against Montana Western was by far better and more fun to watch then the two matches prior to it. Girls finally started taking chances out on the court and trying new things. Our back row players, Holly Hunt (libero), Brooklynn Larson (DS) and Rebekkah Gains
(DS) did a phenomenal job on serve receive and defense. I'm really happy with how they're playing and improving every practice. I saw a glimpse of the future with Emily Allen (MH/RS) as she took control of the front row in game three against Montana Western. Kara Moon (previously a right side for WWU) has been moved to the middle and she's taking on the new position well. Courtney Zaro and Kelsie Schafer (Setters/OH) are also taking on the brunt of the duties as our setter/hitter combo. If we can get the middles more available and closing more blocks, we'll be ok. I'm very excited to see where this team is going. Everyone is excited to work hard and if they keep working hard we are going to see great things.
