The Peabody-Burns volleyball team, with a core of experienced players, will seek to improve on last season?s 17-16 record under the direction of coach Darren Schroeder, who begins his 12th year.
The Warriors posted a 6-2 record in the Wheat State League last year and finished third in both the regular season and league tournament. Their season ended in the second round of the Class 2A sub-state tournament.
Peabody-Burns will take to the court this year without the presence of four starters from last season.
?The first couple of weeks will be important to establish positions and rotations,? Schroeder said. ?However, we do return a solid group of players with varsity experience.?
Leading the Warriors will be second-team all-league selection Katy Benson, a 5-foot-6 sophomore setter.
?Katy will lead and create offensive opportunities for the attackers,? Schroeder said.
Schroeder expects senior Kaycy Gonzalez (5-8 outsider hitter) to be a key force at the net.
?Kaycy returns for her senior season and will carry a large portion of the attacking load,? he said. ?Brianna Larsen (5-10 junior middle hitter) and Jordan Gibson (5-5 senior outside hitter) look to help her with attacking duties.
?The other attacking positions are up for grabs and will be decided in practice.?
Also returning for the Warriors is senior Cierra Foth, a 5-5 setter.
Players competing for varsity playing time include juniors Christa Elliot (5-6) and Riley McDowell (5-5) and sophomore Alex Lewis (5-10).
Schroeder expects Little River, Goessel and Centre to be among those at the top of the league this season, he said.
The Warriors will aim to be in contention, too.
?This group loves to work hard and is eager to prove they can compete and finish in the top part of the league,? Schroeder said. ?Serving should be a team strength.
?For us to be competitive this season, passing must be a priority, and ball control has to improve.?
Peabody-Burns will open the season Sept. 10 with a dual meet at home.
