Seven returning players will aid Peabody-Burns volleyball

Written by Katie Morford Tuesday, 30 August 2011 17:11

The Peabody-Burns volleyball has seven returning seniors and letter-winners this season. They are: front row (from left), McKenzie Ensminger, Paige Lewis, Brandee Burnett; back row, Tori Schroeder, Sarah Hofkamp, Rayna Barnes, Kaycy Gonzales.

The Peabody-Burns Warrior volleyball team hopes seven returning players will provide the experience it needs to leave its mark on the league.

“The chemistry on the team is great, and I think this will allow us to identify roles and players to play to their strengths, allowing the team to improve into a competitive team in the Wheat State League,” said coach Darren Schroeder, who returns for his 10th season.

Last year, the Warriors lost in the second round of sub-state after placing third in the league tournament. They posted an 18-16 regular season record with a 5-3 mark in the WSL.

Five of the Warriors’ seven returning players started last year. Returning are: senior setter Sarah Hofkamp; senior right side Tori Schroeder; junior outside hitter Paige Lewis; junior middle hitter Rayna Barnes; junior right side Brandee Burnett; junior libero McKenzie Ensmin­ger and sophomore outside hitter Kaycy Gonzalez.

“Paige Lewis and Kaycy Gonzalez will be relied on heavily to play the outside and provide a scoring threat,” said Schroeder, adding that Rayna Barnes will be the team’s main middle hitter and blocker.

Hofkamp, who was named second-team all-league last season, will direct the Warriors’ offense once again as setter.

“We will rely on Sarah to help us create a quicker offensive system this year than in the past,” Schroeder said. “We hope that our experience from last year will allow us to be highly competitive on a nightly basis.

“Hopefully, as the season progresses our ball control will continue to improve, and that will lead to improvement in all facets of our system.”

The Warriors began regular-season play Aug. 27 with a tournament on their home court.