By Chris Parker
Cabool volleyball has a new head coach in Cali Bartholomew this season.
“Entering my first year as head coach of the very talented Lady Bulldogs, I am honored to have this group of girls,” Bartholomew said. “Our chemistry grew stronger between two-a-day practices, summer league, and the Branson camp. The camaraderie is admirable and inspiring. As a first-year coach, it is very exciting to see the varsity girls buying into my leadership and taking a huge interest in the program. They understand the patience and sacrifice it takes to be successful at this level.”
She inherits a program coming off a 16-15-1 season. Nine players will make up the varsity equation this season.
“The Lady Bulldogs are aiming for a winning season behind nine players: Hannah Janson, Lakaya Reece, Alyssa Long, Nataleigh Cornelius, Cambree Woodard, Sophia Dotson, Lexi Miller, Lily Thiele, and Jacie McMinn,” Bartholomew said. “At the end of this season, I want to see growth individually and as a team. Cabool is building a program, and that takes time. The small things win big games.”
Four players who led in one stat category or another return. Those four are: Hannah Janson (senior middle), Lakaya Reece (senior libero), Cambree Woodard (sophomore setter) and Sophia Dotson (sophomore outside hitter).
Bartholomew on Janson: “Hannah Janson led the team with most blocks last season. Hannah brings a towering presence to the team. She has gained a tremendous amount of confidence over the summer; excited to see her grow to her fullest potential. She is a pillar for the Lady Bulldogs.”
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Bartholomew on Reece: “Lakaya Reece led the team with most digs last season. While Lakaya remains a libero, we changed her location on the court and since then has dominated the floor with her agility, toughness, and communication. She brings ball control to the team. Lakaya is a natural leader on the floor.”
Bartholomew on Woodard: “Cambree Woodard led the team with most aces last season. Cambree leads the team with her quiet determination on and off the court. She is vital to running a smooth offense for the Lady Bulldogs. Cambree is the calm to the storm on the floor.”
Bartholomew on Dotson: “Sophia Dotson had the highest serve receive average and was second in kills and blocks last season. Sophia has dedicated herself to the game and has an unmatched competitive drive. She is aggressive at the net. Sophia brings a lot of energy to the team.”
Reece is the lone returning all-conference player. She was named Honorable Mention All-SCA last season.
Lexi Miller (sophomore middle) and Jacie McMinn (freshman right side) will be two newcomers to watch.
“Lexi Miller is stepping up to play varsity. Lexi started out as a right-side hitter, but proved she can be a stronger middle for us. She has been a player that is willing to take on any role, a true team player,” Bartholomew said. “Jacie McMinn will be an asset with her positive attitude. While she may lack experience, she doesn’t lack persistence.”
Overall, the roster brings versatility and grit to the court.
“Our biggest strength is our versatility and willingness to overcome any obstacles put in our way,” Bartholomew said. “The drive they have to make a name for themselves as the Lady Bulldogs is unmatched this year. They constantly want to improve and be better the next day. They have worked relentlessly to be the best possible player, for the overall good of the team.”
