After a season of constant adjustments, the Colorado Christian volleyball squad is ready to return to a level of regularity.

Despite all the peaks and valleys of the spring 2021 campaign, the Cougars finished well by qualifying for the RMAC Tournament and competing quite well against No. 3 MSU Denver in the opening round.

"Well in one sense it feels like we are all newcomers.  With the exception of Kristy Dick and Ashley Drye, not a single player has had a 'normal' season with us," said fifth year head coach Bobby Blanken. "With this in mind, I would say that our ability to trust each other on the court and our willingness to buy-in early to what we are trying to do on the court are two key indicators to our programs success early on."

With a regular looking schedule on the docket beginning in early September and ending in November, success could have a variety of looks as they season gets underway.

"Success is such a loaded word," Blanken said. "I think most people in our industry tend to go straight for the win loss column but for me its always been more than that.  I'll know we've had success at the end of the year if we are still loving our sport, loving each other, and still trying to be better than we were yesterday."  

OFFENSIVE ATTACK

The Cougars will mix-and-match their hitters across the front lines. Bre Allen led the team with a 2.89 kills per set average last season and will be a key contributor on the outside. Drye will compete for playing time with newcomers Elizabeth Goodman, Abby Newell as will sophomores Alli Douglass Leielle Salinger and Kylar Raymond at the pins.

In the middle, Dick is the most experience player after playing in 42 sets last season. Lilly Woods and MacKenzie Close are also expected to contribute as the season moves along.

"Offensively we've got some depth at every position so it will be interesting to see what emerges.  Having Bre back and healthy will be a significant contribution on our side.  She was top 10 in the conference last year in kills per set and this was all while dealing with some injuries.  I'm excited to see how she is able to put it together in a somewhat normal (Lord willing!) year," explained Blanken.

SETTERS

A pair of newcomers will direct the offense this fall. Transfer Tiffinay Gauspohl and freshman Izzy Jones will compete for the starting position during their first season in a Colorado Christian uniform.

"Tiffinay and Izzy are exactly what we need.  Both of them have played high level volleyball and are prepared for the pressure that comes with high level competition," Blanken said. "Both have level heads on the court and have shown good leadership in our time together so far.  I'm excited to see how they are able to lead their sides in the days leading up to our first competition"

DEFENSE

A foursome of players will compete to wear the libero jersey and play a significant role as a defensive specialist. The group of Megan Piton, Madelyn Long, Ryanne Ferro all saw noteworthy playing time behind the 10-foot line during the 17-matches play in the spring. Newcomer Tarryn Debenedetto will push those returners as she competes for play time.

"This group is fun!  They are hard charging with their approach to learning, and committed to getting better each day we've been in the gym.  I have loved their vocal presence as well.  You really want to see a fearless approach not only to learning and growth but also to the challenges given by hitters/servers on the other side of the net.  I think we are starting to see that with this crew," commented Blanken.