Coming off a trip to the state tournament and the Irish’s first season in 6A, the volleyball team feels ready for whatever the season holds. With 15 games on the regular schedule, the team’s season began with a 3-1 victory over Heritage Hall, Aug. 17. 

“I feel like a lot of people expected us not to do as well [last season], but we made it to state,” junior Catherine Schultz said. 

Although presented with a tougher schedule, the players believe they can make it back to state this year. 

“Our schedule is more difficult this year, but I think we can do it,” Schultz said.  

As they adjust to the new season and the new lineup, strong senior leadership is key to a successful season. 

“Seniors always leave a hole on the team, but it never ceases to amaze me how the new senior class fills the hole and offers different contributions to the team,” Head Coach Kelli Miller said. “It is truly a blessing that our seniors always end up being exactly what our team needs that particular year.”

With one player already on varsity and multiple on JV, the freshman class is strong and will be an asset for the season, Miller said. 

“It makes me very proud to have made varsity,” freshman Greer DeLeon said. “I think I am always competing for my spot, but I love playing and the players treat me as if I was in the same grade. Being able to make and play varsity is such an amazing feeling.”

It isn’t easy to make it to state. It takes hard work, dedication, and a solid game plan. This year defense will be an important coaching point if the team wants to make a return to the state tournament. 

“Having a strong defense is key and controlling the things we can control like: effort, communication, being a strong teammate, mental strength and a positive attitude,” Miller said.

The Bishop Kelley game is one the players look forward to each year. Last year, the Irish were the only team to take Kelley to five sets. However, this year is unique because Kelley is the reigning 6A State Champion. 

“I’m most looking forward to the Bishop Kelley game, obviously, because of the rivalry, but also to kind of prove ourselves from last year since we took them to five, so it’ll be fun to play them again,” sophomore Grace McDougall said.

The team takes on Bishop Kelley in the McCarthy Gymnasium Sept. 21 at 6 p.m.