By Michael Cignoli (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
SPRINGFIELD — The Central volleyball program will have a largely new look this season, with a young group of players ready to compete for spots in the rotation.
The Bulldogs return just one full-time starter from last season’s team that finished 10-23-3, but second-year coach Brooke Tadlock believes her team has the potential to surprise opponents.
“Most people don’t think young players filling major roles at the varsity level can make a splash and especially not when it’s an entire team full of them,” Tadlock said. “But I definitely see a lot of our girls finding their strength on the court this season.”
Right now, Tadlock believes the team’s biggest strength is “being underestimated.”
That tends to happen any time a program deals with significant roster turnover, but coaches are working to establish a team culture where all players feel empowered in their new roles.
CLICK HERE FOR LINKS TO ALL OF OUR FALL SPORTS PREVIEWS
“We are focusing our efforts as a coaching staff on creating a team dynamic where we have six leaders on the court at all times — where they know what their roles are on the team and what is needed from them in each position,” Tadlock said. “I fully expect each of our varsity players to step up into the leadership role at different times throughout this season.”
As the team’s lone returning starter, Laramie Hill will be one of the first players placed in that role. She recorded a team-best 455 receptions last season, while her 409 digs ranked second.
Tadlock said the Bulldogs were “ecstatic” to have Hill return for her senior year.
“Her defense, past experience and inner strength will definitely add depth to our team, as well as leadership on the court,” Tadlock said. “Her work ethic alone separates her from others, but more so her positivity and encouraging words will set the tone for our young team.”
The Bulldogs have three other returning players who gained varsity experience last year.
Junior libero Hedda Werner-Click picked up 30 aces, 284 digs and 277 receptions.
“Her ability to read the game and get the ball to the target so we can run a full offense will be a significant asset to our team.” Tadlock said.
Sophia Stratton, a sophomore, will be running the offense as the team’s starting setter.
“She is extremely talented and competitive and I can’t wait to see her become the leader I know she is capable of,” Tadlock said.
Junior middle/right-side hitter Addie Green racked up 36 blocks last year, the most of any Central returner.
“Her height and agility (also a soccer player) make her a tremendous blocking threat, as well as a potential offensive standout,” Tadlock said.
Central’s roster will feature “a lot of young talented kids that are excited to step into major roles at the varsity level and are excited for the opportunity of growth and competition,” the coach added.
Zella Gosnell and Kellyce Brooks are two newcomers who could have an immediate impact.
Gosnell, a sophomore middle blocker, is also a standout high-jumper for Central’s track team.
“Definitely brings her A-game every time she steps on the court,” Tadlock said. “Her height and vertical ability … puts her in a great position to put points on the board consistently.”
Brooks, a junior middle/right-side hitter, can help the Bulldogs in several ways.
“She is a very athletic and dynamic athlete that is an offensive threat from every position on the court, including the serving line and the back row,” Tadlock said.
The Bulldogs open the regular season on August 28 at Ozark and will play their first home game the next day against Reeds Spring. Their conference opener is September 12 at Parkview.
“They’ve worked very hard this summer and I’ve seen great things from each of them,” Tadlock said. “The question will be how quickly do they come together and progress as a team in order to find success this season.”
