Julie Kendall

Sports Editor

Returning for the 2012 season with a talented and experienced roster, the College of Wooster volleyball team is expected to improve on their successful 22-10 (11-5 NCAC ) record from last season and contend for a top spot in the North Coast Athletic Conference.

“We have finished in the top 3 of the NCAC for the last five years and expect nothing less in 2012,” said head coach Sarah Davis.

After finishing third in the conference in 2011 behind Div. III national champions Wittenberg University and NCAA tournament semifinalists Hiram College, the Fighting Scots face an extremely challenging schedule, which Davis hopes will prepare them for the conference tournament.

To get them there, the team will look to their experienced core of upperclassmen, who have proven an ability to play great defense both on the net and in the backcourt. “We have a very unselfish and dedicated senior class,” remarked Davis.

Seniors include Kelley Johnson, a two-time all-conference standout who last year led the NCAC with an average 5.43 digs per set, totaling 576 on the season. Melissa Morgan  ‘13 will be another key offensive player who has shown versatility and consistency in her career, earning an average 2.03 kills per set, 283 digs, and 31 blocks last season.

Bringing a deep level of experience to the squad is Devin Grandi ’13 who has played an impressive 70 matches in her three years at Wooster, including all 32 last season.

As for the rest of the roster, Davis said, “I’m excited about the offensive attack that our junior class brings.  Our underclassmen consist of some great volleyball skill and amazing passion for the game.”

All-conference honoree Zoe Zwegat ’14 led the league in blocks two years in a row, and showed versatility last season by recording the second-highest hitting percentage on the team (.248).

Paige Parker ’14 will continue to be a go-to hitter, who last season ranked among team leaders with an average 2.26 kills per set, 226 digs and 30 blocks.

Also expected to step up her role on the offensive side is setter Autumn Berry ’14. Last year, Berry shared duties in a two-setter scheme, and averaged 3.76 assists per set — a number that could very well double if she takes the position herself.

The Fighting Scots welcome six incoming first-years, who join a talented squad  focused on improving on last year’s strong finish.

Davis commented, “The team has been extremely positive through pre-season. Their dedication to off-season conditioning and hard work in the weight room this summer and last spring is paying off.”

The Scots will begin competition this weekend at the Ohio Northern Invitational in Ada, Ohio, where they will face teams from Ohio Northern University, Carnegie Mellon University, Heidelberg University and Theil College.

Their first home game is scheduled for September 11 at 7:00 p.m. against the Blue Streaks from John Carroll University.