By Chris Parker
Hurley volleyball has a new head coach in Claudia Little. She takes over a program that won 14 matches in 2021, which is the most wins for the program since 2018.
The Lady Tigers will lean on four-year starter Ashlee Robertson in the middle. She was a first-team all-conference selection last year.
“She brings energy, 100 % effort, athleticism, and leadership,” Little said. “She is a gritty player that has a great attitude and works hard, she always wants the ball and is very quick.”
Fellow senior Lauren Green is a second returning four-year starter. She will play outside hitter.
“This summer Lauren has stepped up as a leader,” Little said. “She is calling for the ball more and is having great success as an outside hitter. She is also very fundamentally sound as a defensive player.”
Sophomore setter Jaema Schimmels is the final returning starter. She started at setter last year.
“Jaema started last year as a freshman and was very successful,” Little said. “She has improved in all areas of the game. She has worked hard this summer will be a leader on the court.”
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Sophomore middle hitter Madi Conrad will see her role expand this year after seeing some varsity action last year.
“Madi played some varsity last year, but battled against a team with four senior starters,” Little said. “Madi is an athlete, she has so much natural talent. This summer she has improved her game fundamentally on offense and defense. I expect her to step up and be a force on the court.”
Junior outside hitter Morgan Smith is another player who saw some varsity action last year.
“Morgan had some varsity playing time last year but will add depth to the team,” Little said. “She has worked hard this summer and has improved in all aspects of the game.”
Sophomore Dacia Grubbs has shown improvement over the summer and will be in the mix for time at setter.
“Dacia just needs confidence, which she should get as she gains experience,” Little said. “She has worked hard this summer and it showed on the court.”
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Selena Flores will be a defensive specialist in her junior year.
“Selena is a presence on the court,” Little said. “She has a great attitude and brings energy.”
Sophomore Kenzie Riley will compete for varsity sets.
“Kenzie has put in time this summer and it shows,” Little said. “She has grown as a player and continues to improve.”
Hurley will host Southwest, Purdy and Wheaton for a jamboree before opening the regular season on Aug. 26 at Fordland.
“(I expect them to) work hard and improve every practice and every game,” Little said. “I want these girls to be unselfish and always celebrate each other’s successes.”
