Peabody-Burns High School volleyball coach Darren Schroeder has five varsity players returning from the 2005 team and a lot of room for growth.

Moundridge, Hutch Trinity and Little River are the top teams in the Heart of America League and, according to Schroeder, "Berean and (Peabody-Burns) have had some really good matches in recent years."

The Warriors went 12-20 last season and 3-9 in the league. In the post-season, PBHS lost in the sub-state semifinal round.

With 5-foot-6 senior Jessi Hilliard leading the way and powering the Warriors' offense, Schroeder and assistant coach Robi Alstrom have a measure of flexibility in trying to replace three departed starters.

Other returning players include junior Becky Morris and sophomore Bayleigh Clark, who played significant minutes on the court last year.

Returning juniors Tabitha O'Neal and Jessica Gillet also logged time with the varsity.

Team height is not a strength for the 2006 Warriors. Morris is 5-6, O'Neal is 5-7 and both Gillet and Clark are listed at 5-2.

"Having a strong passing game will be very important to this group," Schroeder said. "If we develop in three key areas-defense, serving and passing-look for us to grow and improve as the season progresses."

Schroeder expects significant contributions from seniors Elaina Newell, Shelby Wilson and sophomore Clarissa Terronez.

Displaying a rigorous work ethic and willingness to learn, the team had a good offseason.

Attitude and work ethic are two strengths Schroeder identifies in his team.

Freshmen Julie Wedel and Danielle Savage typify some of the qualities Schroeder emphasizes about the team: "This is the most fun group I've had...and they come to the gym every day and improve.

"They're young and have to learn a lot in the first month and we'll have to see how we do reacting to games."