ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Thursday, September 5, 1996 TAG: 9609050053
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV-5 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
DATELINE: DUBLIN
TYPE: HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS
SOURCE: ANGIE WATTS STAFF WRITER
The Pulaski County High volleyball team took some positive steps last year. The Cougars are eager for a few more.
After years of disappointment and defeat, third-year coach Angela Harris said things are looking up. The Cougars finished last season just 1-7 in the Roanoke Valley District, but took fourth place in the district tournament, marking the first time in years Pulaski County emerged from the cellar.
"Finishing fourth place in the district tournament was a big step for us," Harris said. "I think it gave us a little respect and confidence. When I took over three years ago, we hadn't had a successful program in 10 years, so I've been rebuilding from the start.
"It looks like we have more potential now than any other year."
Part of the reason for the optimism is a group of five seniors who have been with Harris since her arrival. Leading the way will be captains Beth Alley and Toni Wright, who will be depended on for more than just their performance during games.
"My job as captain is mostly to be responsible ... to lead," Alley said. "To be there in case any problems arise, and to encourage and give my best to set an example for the rest of the team."
Like Harris, Alley said she believes last season's success in the tournament, however small, has made a big difference.
"This year we've started out with much more vigor," Alley said. "We want to get out there. Last year we were still rebuilding with our new coach, and the season provided us with the experience we needed to be a better team. This year we're ready."
Joining Alley and Wright are seniors Karen Heidt, Mandy Sexton and Lisa Skeens. Harris said she looks for middle blocker Sexton and outside hitter Skeens to be essential to the team's success. Juniors Kristen Adkins and Lea Hallstead are expected to be big contributors as well.
"We won a couple games two years ago - for the first time in a while - and last year we won three matches and 14 games," Harris said. "This year I'm hoping to get some match wins in district play. We have better athletes now and we've all been together for three years. I hope the combination of those [factors] will make us more competitive."
Although the Cougars goals may be considered modest, they suit Alley just fine.
"[Coach Harris] sets reachable goals, which is good because when you achieve them it just gives you extra strength to go after the next one," she said. "We'd like to regain a sense of pride about Pulaski County volleyball. We're not as popular as football and some of the other sports, but we want to make Pulaski County proud of us too."
LENGTH: Medium: 55 linesby CNB