By Chris Parker
Carthage volleyball won nine matches in the first season under head coach Chloe Allmoslecher. The Tigers will look for more wins this year with a tight-knit group that is more familiar with Allmoslecher’s system and expectations.
“It’s nice to have a year under my belt. There are things we had to teach/explain at this time last year that we already have established and get an opportunity to build upon and move forward,” Allmoslecher said. “Our biggest strength will be our team dynamic. Our girls mesh wall on and off the court.”
A pair of seniors in Riann Schwartz and Ava Bourgalt return.
Schwartz, a four-year varsity player, will be the team’s libero. She led the team in serve receptions (408) and digs (338) last season.
“She (Schwartz) will be a leader for us on and off the court,” Allmoslecher said. “She is someone both our front and back row rely on heavily.”
Bourgalt saw action in 87 of 89 sets last season. She will move to outside hitter this season.
“We are excited about Ava taking on a new role for us on the court this year,” Allmoslecher said. “I have loved seeing her confidence build throughout the summer.”
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The junior class is strong featuring Jaidyn Brunnert (setter), Peyton Ray (outside), Millie Templeman (middle) and Bella Coy (outside).
“All (of the above juniors) impacted the varsity court at some point throughout the season last year gaining great experience,” Allmoslecher said. “I am excited to see this group thrive this year. They have played a lot of ball together over the years.”
Sophomore defensive specialist Ella Schwartz also returns.
“Ella was our first kid off the bench last year as a freshman who always has a competitive mindset,” Allmoslecher said. “Ella and Riann are a powerful sister duo defensively.”
There are several newcomers who will impact the varsity lineup.
“We have a very competitive group of kids this year,” Allmoslecher said. “I look forward to seeing who rises up and gets a chance to compete on the varsity court.”
Defense will be key for Carthage this season, as the Tigers lack some height.
“We are not the tallest bunch of kids, so we will need to be scrappy and bring a lot of energy to the court,” Allmoslecher said. “We are going to rely heavily on our defensive players to keep us in system.”
Carthage will host a jamboree on Aug. 26 with Aurora, Nevada and Joplin. The Tigers open the regular season on Aug. 26 at the Branson Invitational.
“We expect the girls to show up to every game ready to go, believing they can win no matter who is on the other side of the net,” Allmoslecher said.
