By Chris Parker
Wheaton volleyball was a young team last year, but that didn’t stop the Bulldogs from posting a winning season. They finished with an overall record of 16-11-1.
This year, six starters return.
Monica Hinojosa (senior middle hitter), Patti Vang (senior defensive specialist) and Lily Ray (junior setter) will be the key leaders.
“Monica and Patti are both multiple year letter winners and are great role models for our younger players,” Wheaton coach Robert Creekmore said. “The setter position always requires a high level of leadership and I look forward to Lily growing into that role in her second year at the varsity level.”
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Hinojosa was named second-team all-conference while Ray was named honorable mention all-conference last year.
Juniors Alison Whitman (outside hitter) and Jenny Par (outside hitter) and sophomore Jianna Cha (middle hitter) also return for Wheaton.
Zoey Martell will see varsity action at right side in her junior season.
“With six starters returning, I believe that experience will be our biggest strength. Every one of these ladies have been in tough positions over the last few years and have gained knowledge and confidence that will serve them well this season,” Creekmore said. “Energy is such an important component to the sport of volleyball. You almost need to be half cheerleader half volleyball player. Getting excited for your teammates and maintaining a high level of energy for an entire match is something that we can improve on this season.”
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Wheaton opens the season on Aug. 27 at home against Chadwick.
“We are working off our fifth consecutive season with a winning record. I think any team is always looking to finish above .500, but I believe we are capable of surpassing our 16 wins from last season. 20 wins is always a great goal, and I believe we will definitely be in the top 2-3 of the Ozark 7 Conference,” Creekmore said. “We had to forfeit our second round match in the district tournament last season due to COVID but I believe we will put together a deep run in the district tournament as well.”
