The Liberty Christian Academy girls volleyball program is back with six seniors on the team and Head Coach Dakota Ball entering his second season.
The Eagles lost a couple of seniors but have gained a few players and returned everyone else. Ball currently has 13 girls on his roster, with two managers and new Assistant Coach Kylie Ball.
With more senior leadership on the team, Ball notes that this year the squad has a lot more experience.
“We have a lot more influence and a lot more kids that know the game better,” Ball said. “Last year, it was a lot of learning the game and stuff like that. This year, we’re pretty educated and we’re ready, so it should be a different game.”
With some new faces, Ball is looking to see how the team will gel and grow together. Seniors Allie Brazier and Raelee Bruno added the connection the team has makes it seamless to work with one another.
Ball said that having a couple of girls that play club volleyball has also been an asset for the team.
Brazier went on to say that having Ball as a coach has helped the team as well.
“He’s really encouraging to all of us and I think he’s going to make this year and however many years he stays, great seasons of volleyball,” Brazier said.
In addition, Brazier noted the team’s hitting game and defense are strengths of the team. Bruno added that the team’s bond and communication has been good as well.
“I feel like there’s a lot more talent all around. It’s not just certain people, it’s everyone,” Bruno said. “Everyone’s learning the basics and improving on those skills, rather than just a few.”
Ball noted that the current focus in practice has been communication as LCA Graduate Andreanna Scheltens often led with communication in the back row. However, Brazier, who will be the starting libero, is expected to be that voice for the Eagles.
“A lot of that weight is going to be right on her shoulders to control that back row and be a voice defensively back there for us,” Ball said.
While Ball always has the goal to win important games and contend for a state championship, he ultimately wants to see the seniors lead by example.
“I want to see how these older girls can influence the next generation for next year. With our whole starting lineup being seniors, I want to see how they can help the girls grow into next year,” Ball said.
The Eagles will start their season on Aug. 23 at home against Eagle Ridge.
“I’m excited to see how these girls take the game and challenge themselves and just see what they can do,” Ball said.
