Pioneer Volleyball Aims for Growth
PLATTEVILLE, Wis. – After finishing above .500 for the first time since 2012, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville volleyball team hopes to duplicate that success in the 2018 season.
PLATTEVILLE, Wis. – After finishing above .500 for the first time since 2012, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville volleyball team hopes to duplicate that success in the 2018 season.
Returning for her second season, head coach Samantha Birkicht looks to build on the foundation the team created last season. Coach Birkicht expects the returners from last year to continue to make a positive impact on the culture of the program.
"Our returning players have done a great job of accepting and mentoring our freshman class." Birkicht said "I believe the actions the team is taking off the court will lead to future success of our program."
The team has lost five of its six starters from last season which creates opportunity for other players to contribute this season. Notable returning players include junior middle hitter Katie Jones and sophomore outside hitter Hailey Youngren.
"I'm excited to see which players step up and fill the big shoes of our seniors that graduated. It's always tough when you lose a majority of the starting lineup but it gives other players a chance to shine," Birkicht said "I'm excited to see our players compete with each other all season long for court time."
The Pioneers welcome nine new players this season, many of which Coach Birkicht expects to compete for playing time. Notable incoming players include Cassandra "CJ" Johnson from St. Charles, Ill and Kaite Asche from Durand, Ill.
In 2017, the Pioneers finished 1-6 in the WIAC, with an overall record of 15-14. Despite the winning season, the senior-heavy team was not able to qualify for the WIAC conference tournament.
Birkicht said "Our goal is always to compete and we hope to surpass our success from last year and reach the WIAC conference tournament."
The Pioneers began pre-season practice on Aug. 18 and play their first match Aug. 31 against Coe College at the UW-Whitewater Invitational. A full schedule can be found online at: