Coach Dana Bryant is very enthusiastic and optimistic about her Lady Raiders volleyball team despite the loss of two key players to graduation. Bryant lost outside hitter/defensive specialist Tiffany Sheldon and middle hitter Kelsey Sexton. Both girls signed scholarships with Southern Union.While the loss of Sheldon and Sexton was certainly felt, Bryant has six returning players from a squad that went to regional last year.
Returning for Bryant are seniors Miranda Smith, hitter, Emily Fincher, libero and Danielle Johnston, a defensive specialist/server. Two juniors, Whitney Glass and Jessica Glass and two sophomores, Ashley Bryant and Jessie Kate Stewart return to the court.
New to the team are sophomores Morgan Smith and Amber Pruitt and freshmen Jessica Boozer and Payton Lewis. Coach Bryant has a lot of confidence in her two freshmen, moving them both up to varsity to start as middle hitters. “Jessica and Payton have added a much needed block at the net and are effective hitters,” says Bryant, “they have great attitudes and are great at what they are asked to do. Maranda, Jessie Kate and Whitney work great together on the net. Between all three of them I have consistent hits, smart hits and hard hits.
“Ashley is a smart setter and allows us to be creative with our plays. Emily and Jessica Glass pick up anything that comes their way on the back court. Danielle Johnston comes in and provides a much needed consistent serve.”
Bryant feels that her present team “has more heart and hustle of any team I’ve coached. They have positive attitudes and work well together. We don’t have a ‘star’ on our team. We rely on everyone to get us where we want to go.” Pleasant Valley will be playing in an area with Glencoe, Piedmont, Weaver and White Plains.
The Lady Raiders have started the season with a 5-2 record.
