Volleyball Preview

 By Tommy Keeler Jr. - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Colonels are in a rebuilding year this season, but that doesn't mean they won't be a factor in the Northwestern District.

James Wood lost seven players from last year's squad, including Heather Armel (165 kills and 159 digs), Haley Smith (56 kills and 50 blocks) and Sara Michael (118 kills, 61 blocks and 430 assists).

However, the Colonels have some strong players to build the team around. Junior Emily Shannon led the area with 323 kills and had 131 digs. Junior Hannah Tierney had 101 kills and 72 blocks last year for the Colonels. Junior Megan Crabtree also saw valuable playing time. The Colonels also return seniors Carly Mullin (48 kills) and Cady Schaffer (284 assists and 88 digs).

James Wood also has six promising newcomers, including five sophomores.

Last year the Colonels went into the Northwestern District tournament as the No. 4 seed, but advanced to the final. They lost in five games to Millbrook with a regional berth on the line.

"I expect the district to be really strong again this year," James Wood coach Jill Lester said. "I think everybody will be battling it out for the top one or two spots. I'm really excited about the season."