By Chris Parker
Brittany Madden takes over as head coach of a Thayer volleyball program that has been on the rise for the past three seasons. After winning just one match in 2020, the Bobcats have won 10, 18 and 22 matches in the three successive seasons.
Thayer came up one set short of a district title in a 3-2 loss to Liberty in the district championship match.
“The run we had last year was great for the Thayer volleyball program,” Madden said. “No one expected us to be a competitor in this sport. Last year’s team put Thayer volleyball on the map. This year’s team, although they’re very young, can also be competitive in the district. While traveling to play many games over the summer, this team has developed a lot of grit and chemistry. Everyone needs to do their part on the court, and everything will flow.”
Thayer returns one of the best hitters in the SCA in Abby Bowers. She put down 413 kills in her junior season.
“Abby Bowers is a very skilled hitter,” Madden said. “Her ability to see the court is something you cannot teach a player; she is able to read her opponents across the net and figure out their weaknesses. As a senior, Abby needs to lead this team while we’re playing so many new players. Abby will play all the way around the court. While being a player who can pass, set, and hit, we’re going to use her everywhere. Not only is she a primary hitter in the front row, we can also go to her in the back row.”
Senior Ashlee Jackson will be back playing libero this season. She had 324 serve receptions and 206 digs playing in all but one set last season.
“We’re looking for Ashlee to take control of the back row,” Madden said. “Ashlee has a great ability to read the hitters and make quick moves. We are also hoping she can have an impact on serve receive with her passing. As a senior, we’re also looking at her to lead this team alongside Abby. With many years on the varsity level, she is going to be a huge help to guide the younger players.”
Avery Bowers played in 54 sets last season. She will be a middle blocker.
“As a middle blocker, Avery’s ability to put up a block is something we really rely on,” Madden said. “We’re also trying to incorporate Avery in the offense as much as possible. With Avery in our rotation, we’re going to be a threat along the net.”
Many players from last season’s junior varsity along with freshmen RyleeJo Sorrel, Rorie Risner and Ryleigh Davis will look to impact the varsity lineup this season.
Thayer will jamboree at Eminence with the host and Lesterville. The Bobcats open the regular season Sept. 3 at home against Winona.
