By Chris Parker
Liberty volleyball did what Liberty volleyball does last season. The Eagles went 18-12-3 on the way to the program’s fourth consecutive district title and 12th in the past 15 years.
The Eagles graduated six seniors who saw varsity action last season.
“We are losing a lot of talent and height from last season,” Liberty head coach Shari Tune said. “It will take some time to find our groove. We will not replace our standouts from last year, we will be redirecting. It will be a different look for us size wise but it’s a gritty group of girls with a work ethic you can’t complain about.”
Seniors Korie Lind and Bryleigh Wallace were second (234) and third (192) in kills last season.
“Korie and Bryleigh will be our go to players as long as they stay healthy. They are veteran players with a ton of experience. Korie can play any position needed, and they both can attack from all over the court,” Tune said. “They are both heavy hitters. Our shot selection will have to broaden.”
Kaylie Wagner returns as a libero in her senior season. She led the team with 383 digs and 478 serve receptions as a junior.
“She (Wagner) will be great for us on the back line,” Tune said. “She has been in this position since her sophomore year. She knows I expect and demand a lot from her and her leadership.”
Junior Jade Acklin returns as a right side and a setter.
“She (Acklin) is just a great team player,” Tune said. “She has a heart you want on the floor.”
Sophomore Jayli Tharp saw some varsity action last season and is expected to take a bigger role. Seniors Ady Holden and Aliyah Kramer have some potential to earn some time as well.
Juniors Kelbie Smith (OH/RS) and Kinsey Shoup (DS) along with sophomore Delani Ellett (OH/RS) will vie for varsity sets.
Freshmen Brinley Duckett (MB) and Jordyn Tune (S/DS) will push the veterans for playing time.
“Our freshman group has the determination to throw out some competition for these veterans, and I am hoping they all respond with even more grit,” Coach Tune said.
Liberty will host Mountain Grove and Winona for a jamboree on Aug. 27. The Eagles open the regular season on Sept. 5 at home against West Plains.
“Our work ethic is unmatched, but we are small, so it will definitely be a factor when playing bigger schools,” Coach Tune said. “Our focus needs to be our side of the ball; we have to be able to get teams out of system and just keep battling on defense. Our serve and pass game will be super important for us. Our setting struggled this summer, we will have to find a consistency there to find our groove.”
