Season Preview

The Ohio Christian University women's volleyball team had their best season ever in 2006, setting school records in matches won (16) and tying the all-time number of games won (57) in a season. The Lady Trailblazers finished with a 16-16 overall record and 10-6 in NCCAA Div II Mid-East regional play. Coach Wes Brothers hopes to build on the continued success of the OCU volleyball program. He said "Last year, the Lady Trailblazers put together an amazing run. The team showed great heart and dedication over the course of the season. To win the region, we will have to increase our mental toughness and develop a stable defense."

The Trailblazers graduated one player from last year's team, Jordan Kline. She received 2nd Team All-Region honors last year and will be missed. OCU has seven returning players, including five starters, from last year's squad that beat the number one team in the nation and achieved regional runner-up status! Leadership will come from two seniors: Richelle Stewart and Whitney Pontius. Whitney was in the top ten in the nation in the statistical category for setting and received 2nd Team All-Region honors last year. Junior Marlaina Shotsky earned MVP of the Mid-East Region and was named a member of the All-Americans 2nd Team.

Four incoming recruits will be joining the Lady Trailblazers for the 2007 season. They are Sarah O'Conner, Katie Baird, Brianna Brown, and Amanda Hodge. "We will be looking to Sarah and Amanda to add depth to our defense," stated Brothers. Incoming Freshmen Katie Baird and Brianna Brown will provide both offensive and defensive skills. "One of the areas we are looking to improve on for the 2007 season is consistency," says Coach Wes, "and Katie's and Brianna's passing and presence at the net will help in stabilizing both the offensive and defensive elements of our team."

"The Mid-East region is very close and competitive. My hope is that the combination of heart and skill that we have will help us to take the next step and win the regional championship," stated Brothers.

For more information on Ohio Christian University Athletics, please call the OCU Athletics Office at (740) 477-7731.