By Chris Parker
Monett volleyball is coming off a two-win season, but the number in the win column should increase this season with an experienced group returning.
“We are returning a lot of experienced players who have been playing on varsity for the past few seasons,” Monett head coach Jennifer Nichols said. “They have a desire to work hard and improve, but never give up. Their resilience and dedication are some of their biggest strengths.”
The returning players include Sarah Negre (senior DS/libero), Addalyn Brownlee (junior MH), Carsyn Goetz (OH/DS), Meredith Merriman (junior MH), Morgan Wright (junior setter) and Peyton Brandt (sophomore OH).
Negre led Monett with 234 digs as a junior.
“Sarah is one of our most energetic players,” Nichols said. “She is a great teammate and will be the first to celebrate or pick someone else up. She has been working very hard on her defense and passing.”
Brownlee was the top player at the net for Monett last season with 13 blocks.
“Addalyn is a very smart player and sees the court well,” Nichols said.
Goetz was strong from the service line in her sophomore season.
“Carsyn led our team in aces last year with 28,” Nichols said. “She has a very effective serve and back row attack. Carsyn has worked all off season to improve her serve receive and defense.”
Merriman earned second-team all-conference honors by leading Monett in kills in 2023.
“Meredith was named honorable mention all-district last season and second-team all-conference,” Nichols said. “She led the team in hitting percentage and kills with 186.”
Wright returns after handing out 249 assists last season.
“Morgan has worked to get stronger over the off season and summer,” Nichols said. “She led the team last year with 249 assists and had 96% serving percentage.”
Brandt was the top player in serve receptions with 415 as a freshman.
“Peyton led the team with serve receive rating last year,” Nichols said. “She is a strong all-around player who brings consistency to the team.”
Senior Karlee McCallister returns to the volleyball court this season after she played softball her junior year.
“She is one of our strongest players and it shows on the court and during conditioning,” Nichols said. “Karlee leads by example and is extremely coachable.”
Monett opens the regular season on Aug. 31 at the Verona Invitational.
“We want to compete this year at all levels,” Nichols said. “We have been working really hard to build a strong fundamental foundation and expect to see that transfer into game play.”
