Fitch spikers seek for improved year

August 28, 2010 at 12:00a.m.

BY GREG GULAS

The Fitch volleyball Falcons were 4-19 a season ago, but that mark does not deter first-year head coach Allison Jakubec from feeling optimistic about fielding an improved squad in 2010.

With a roster that boasts nine seniors and just one junior, Jakubec is hoping that after taking their lumps a season ago, this group is ready to break out and move up to the next level of play.

“Our strength is our defense and team speed and with a solid group of returnees, I have high expectations for us this season. Those expectations also include building a solid foundation while continually improving over the course of the season. Senior leadership is going to be the key to our success and with a tough Federal League schedule awaiting us, we will definitely need to rely on that leadership,” she said.

Seniors returning to the fold include Britney Weidenthal, Emily Pabst, Kacie Roche, Colleen Hurdley, Amanda Callahan, Sarah Hoelzel, Julie Martinelli, Brittany Noday and Gabby Sutara.

The lone junior is Alexa Lynn, also a letterwinner last season.

Jakubec has tried several lineups during preseason practices and scrimmages, seeking combinations she feels will work best come game time.