Volleyball team kicks off new season with a strong start
All photos by Sydney Pressley.
Lead by seniors Hannah Matthews and Micaela McMichen, Lee’s volleyball team began their season with two wins on Saturday.
“We have eight freshman and a transfer student, so our expectations are that we will gel sooner than later,” said Andrea Hudson, head coach. “We have a tough conference, so it will be a new year for us all around.”
With a predominantly young team and a hard conference, it is important to have strong leaders on the court. Hudson explains the setter as the quarterback of volleyball—they direct everyone where to go and tell everyone what plays to run. This season, Matthews continues her role in this position.
“I’m always kind of in that leadership mindset because I’m a setter and I try to lead by example and be encouraging,” said Matthews.
Matthews prepares to serve for the Lady Flames
Matthews was recently nominated to the All-GSC Preseason team. Being the only setter named to the roster, she explained that it has helped motivate her to be the best setter in the conference for her last season.
“Her personality is what stands out the most. She's energetic and loud and the players love her,” said Hudson. “It makes her easy to follow.”
McMichen has taken the role of the libero for her last season.
“I’m ready for the challenge and to step up,” said McMichen. “I’m ready for the leadership position because I’ve been able to step back and learn for so many years.”
Along with the setter, the libero helps lead the team. McMichen explains that her and Matthews bring a very good balance to the team.
“I’m more hard on the girls and Hannah has more of a goofy side and is a very good coach,” said McMichen. “We each give something the other can’t.”
McMichen and Matthews said that their goals for the season are to win conference and improve the overall consistency of the team. Their showing Saturday indicates that the team will have no trouble achieving these goals.
