University of the Cumberlands Volleyball 06-07 Preview

With a new head coach and a young roster, the 2005 Patriots showed that they had a lot of potential and were willing to do what it takes to get the job done as they posted an overall record of 20-19. “We were able to conclude the season with a winning record, even with our team being young and lacking experience,” said Head Coach Amanda Walton. “We worked extremely hard to overcome our weaknesses of size and experience and showed a tremendous amount of heart toward the game. The junior class stepped up late in the season preparing their leadership skills for 2006-2007.”

Although the ladies said farewell to Traci Snyder, Marie Vickers, and Katie Tinsley who were strong players with great work ethics, the returning Patriots are eager to accept their new positions. Several key players looking to impact the nets include Liz Bowling (setter), Anna Clemenz (OH), Taran Johnson (MB), and Lauren Taylor (MB). Bowling and Clemmenz were Mid-South Conference recipients in 2005 and have the ability to lead the 2006 team to new heights. Johnson, with her great combination of quickness and power could easily develop into one of the best in the conference and Taylor, with a year of collegiate experience under her belt, is going to be expected to step up her game.

Several new faces will add to the mix in 2006 with key signees in Sumyr Knight and Kaylyn Suttles. “Knight is a powerful hitter for her size and she is not afraid to power through a more sizeable opponent,” said Walton. “She is an all around solid player that will be able to fulfill multiple roles. Suttles is also a powerful hitter that plays bigger than her size. She is quick to the ball and gives 110% on and off the court. I am excited about the possibilities she will bring to the team.”

With a strong group of seniors who have a variety of leadership skills, the foundation of the 2006 team is well intact. All the returnees know their role in making the program a success and that has led Coach Walton to set her overall expectations high. “We plan on playing into our strengths and continuing to improve in our areas of weakness,” said Walton.

Although the Patriots still lack size, their quickness will keep them in every game. Mid-South opponents, Georgetown and Campbellsville, will be tough opposition, but all the teams the ladies face are typically strong and the win usually belongs to the team that brings their best game and makes the fewest mistakes.

If the 2006 Patriot volleyball team is to taste success in 2006 they must build on their experiences from last season and incorporate their off-season preparation every time they step up to the net. The foundation has been laid and the goals have been set. Will the ladies rise to the challenge and achieve their goals? Find out on August 25, 2006 as the volleyball team opens their season at the Lincoln Memorial University Tournament.

04-05 Season Preview

05-06 Season Preview