Unity, Versatility Key for Lady Eagles in 2016

DUBUQUE, IA – The Emmaus volleyball team looks to continue building a strong program as they take to the court this fall.  The Lady Eagles return six players from last season and add four newcomers to the   roster.

Junior Captains Elizabeth Brame and Vivienne Yates will take on the positions of middle blocker and defensive specialist.  For the Sophomores, Savannah Petersen will assume the role of libero, while Hannah Bell returns as setter.  Jenny Benson will swing right side, and Alli Howard will continue on as an outside hitter.  Newcomers Lauren Walvatne (defensive specialist), Hannah Snow (middle blocker), Hannah Thorson (outside hitter), and Rachel West (outside hitter) round out the team.

"We have a hard working and dedicated group of ladies, and Coach Ruter and I are excited to see the progress we will make this season," commented Coach Pitman.

The Lady Eagles will again have stiff competition in the Midwest Christian College Conference, and realize that every match on their schedule looks to be a battle.  "We have worked hard this pre-season on flexibility; the ability to back all positions on the court will be essential with a small roster," said Coach Pitman.  "We are planning to face many tough situations, and our team unity and Christian character will be essential to our success this fall.  We will stick to our plan of playing consistent and disciplined volleyball, while serving each other and our Lord."

Indeed, Emmaus will be tested early, as Alli Howard and Hannah Thorson are both injured and are not cleared for the opening matches of the season.  Both players are currently day-to-day.  "In our system every player is essential.  I am eager to see how we respond to this first hurdle against two strong teams in our first triangular this weekend," said Coach Pitman.

The Lady Eagles open their season on the road, traveling to Ironwood, MI.  Friday night (9/2) pits them against the host school, Gogebic Community College (NJCAA) at 7:30 pm.  The two teams will re-match on Saturday (9/3) at 10:30 am, and then Emmaus will face Dakota County Technical College (NJCAA) at 12:30 pm.