By David Grimes
With eight returning players, the Hidden Valley volleyball team is once again poised to battle for the top spot in the tough River Ridge District and make another run deep into the state playoffs come mid-November.
Returning for the Titans, who went 20-5 last season and advanced all the way to the state semifinals, junior first team all-region and all-district selection Caroline Boone (MH, 367 kills, 74 blocks, 94% serving percentage), junior first team all-district selection Jenny Clark (OH,174 kills, team leading 230 digs, 94% serving percentage, 46 aces), senior Lauren Thomas (Right side hitter), junior Madison Morris (MB), senior Emma Sweet (OH), senior Sarah Gray (DS), junior Skylar Kendrick (Libero) and junior Hannah Podechi (Setter).
New to the varsity squad are sophomores Erin Newell (OH/MB) and Sarah Mitchell (RS), along with juniors Maddie Wilson (S) and Brooke Mitchell (OH/MB).
When asked about the team’s strengths, Poff said, “Experience and five seniors are strength. Our new setter is doing great.”
During the pre-season, Hidden Valley won both of their scrimmages against Group A Auburn, who lost in the state finals and EC Glass. Both contests went just three games.
The Titans see their top matches this season as being with Salem, defending state champion and rival Cave Spring, along with Patrick Henry.
“We hope to be a state finalist contender and return to the state tournament,” added Poff, when asked about this season’s outlook. “We hope to win the district this year in a tough River Ridge District.”
