GHS girls eye return to state

Written by Katie Morford Tuesday, 28 August 2012 13:55

The Goessel volleyball team is expected to win the Wheat State League again this season under the leadership of seniors (from left) Jessica Harvey, Tia Goertzen, Alex Hiebert and Johanna Hoffman.

A state-qualifying volleyball team returns to action this fall as the Goessel Bluebirds take the court in 2012 with a senior-laden squad.

Goessel posted a 29-13 record last season, went undefeated in the Wheat State League then went on to be the sub-state champions. They lost their three pool matches at the Class 1A, Div. I tournament in Hays.

“The 2012 volleyball season will be a test of blending seniority with youth,” said Crysta Guhr, who returns for her eighth year as head coach and 14th year at GHS.

“The team looks to defend its Wheat State League title again and make another deep run into the postseason.”

To do that, the Bluebirds will need the help of four all-league seniors. Tia Goertzen returns as an outside hitter, Jessica Harvey as setter, Alex Hiebert as a middle hitter and Johanna Hoffman as a defensive specialist.

“With four all-league selection seniors and no juniors on the roster, the team will need to rely on younger players to fill roles and balance out the Bluebird attack,” Guhr said.

Newcomers to watch include Erin Brubaker, a sophomore opposite hitter who is expected to contribute this season. She will be joined by freshmen Page Hiebert as an outside hitter and Alicen Meysing as a middle hitter.

Included on the Bluebird schedule this season is stiff tournament competition from Sedg­wick, Halstead, Olpe, Hillsboro and Moundridge.

“Tough tournaments will prepare the team well,” Guhr said about the team’s postseason aspirations.

The Bluebirds were scheduled to kick off the regular season with a home matchup against Elyria Christian, Ell-Saline and Hope Aug. 28.