With back-to-back appearances in the MIAA semifinals under their belt, the 2008 Saint Mary’s volleyball team knows what it takes to get to the next level. After not getting past the first round of the league tournament for six consecutive seasons, the Belles are once again making their presence felt among the league contenders.
“We need to build on that success,” said Julie Schroeder-Biek, who is entering her 14th season as the Belles head coach. “The returning players are well aware of what it will take to get to where we want this program to be. We want to be playing for a championship.”
One of the vital players that will help Saint Mary’s get to the next level is Lorna Slupczynski. The junior was a Second-Team MIAA honoree last season after leading the squad in kills per game (3.41) and being listed second in digs per game (3.46).
“Lorna is putting together a fine career at Saint Mary’s. Her teammates really feed off her energy and on-court play from the outside hitter position. The opponents know she is one of our stronger players and Lorna is going to have to continue to raise her game,” Schroeder-Biek said.
Two seniors return for their final run under the Bell Tower and will definitely play a key role in how successful this season ends up. Kaela Hellmann played both middle and outside positions last year, putting together a fine season. The native of Palisade, Colo., posted a team best 3.55 digs per game while recording 2.55 kills per game. She also tied for the team lead in service aces with 37.
Cathy Kurczak comes back as the starting middle hitter. An unfortunate setback cut short her 2007 season, but she still managed to lead the squad with a .264 hitting percentage while posting 2.35 kills per game.
“I am really excited to see what Kaela and Cathy bring to the squad during their final season,” Schroeder-Biek said. “They have both been key players since their first year and have stepped up their play every year since.”
A concern for the Belles will be replacing setter Amanda David. She was a three-year starter and graduated among the best setters ever to play at Saint Mary’s.
“Whoever ends up as our setter this year, we will rally around them and play good volleyball. Junior Liana Rohr certainly has the ability to be that person and we will expect good competition during our preseason practices to see who claims that position,” Schroeder-Biek said.
One final returning hitter is Jacee Watson. During her first year on the court she played in all but three games, producing 1.71 kills and 0.73 blocks per game. Kathleen Mills served as a back-up at the outside hitter position where she tallied 48 kills and 54 digs in 39 games last year.
“More than anything else I want this team to believe in themselves. They have a lot of ability. If they can come together as a team and play as one cohesive unit, we will be in position to be a top team in the league standings,” Schroeder-Biek said.
