By Chris Parker
The 2023 season was historic for the Chadwick volleyball program. The Lady Cardinals won 13 matches and the program’s first district title.
Five of the six players who saw varsity action return this season including four seniors.
The four seniors are Ralen Hume (outside hitter), Millie Burkhart (setter), Kali Purdome (outside hitter) and Annie Burkhart (outside hitter).
“Ralen was one of the top outside hitters in our conference last year and brings the hype for our team,” Chadwick head coach Amy VanHouden said. “Millie is probably the strongest and smartest setter I’ve seen so far come out of Chadwick. She is quick on her feet and reads the floor well, so she is always dumping the ball where the defense isn’t. Kali was the most consistent server on our team last year at 90% from the serve line creating points for us. Annie last year really came in clutch with some big hits and serves in our district championship win. It will be a fun season watching these seniors in their final games at Chadwick.”
Greta Gardner returns for her sophomore season. She is overcoming an injury to her elbow but will be ready for the season.
Lydia Combs, Mylea Bertoldie, Maddy Sallee, Elly Dunn and Macy Daugherty will be newcomers this season.
“Our biggest strength this year will be depth and leadership with returning five starters and both our floor captains being seniors,” VanHouden said. “Each player already knows me as a coach and what I expect of them. I really think our team will just keep on improving and make a great run for that district title again.”
Chadwick opens the regular season on Sept. 3 at Bradleyville.
“The returning depth and strength we have this year is really going to be fun,” VanHouden said. “This is the largest amount of seniors I’ve had at one time on our team since 2017. Last year I think we were counted out a lot, but in the end made our mark. If we continue to work hard as a team and be true to ourselves, I think we will end up opening some eyes again this season.”
