Veterans poised to lead Marietta up the OAC standings in 2006
2006 Pioneer volleyball preview

July 29, 2006
MARIETTA, Ohio — Marietta College volleyball’s expectations of itself have risen, as what once was a young nucleus has now matured into a veteran core in 2006. Third-year Head Coach Tom Symons’ Pioneers return eight of nine lettermen from last season’s squad and six of seven starters.

"We are looking for the improvement the team has made the last two seasons to start turning into wins," said Symons. "We will be helped by the momentum created this past spring season. Without the loss of a senior class, the core of returning players was able to quickly build on the responsibility they had as leaders last season and work to improve their skills and speed."

Senior middle blocker Ellen Doolittle and senior outside hitter Jaymi Stephens will look to carry the offensive load for another year. Doolittle is coming off a season in which she led the team in hitting (.291), blocks (0.99) and service aces (0.40). Stephens paced Marietta in kills (3.01) and digs (3.41) last year.

Other starters returning include senior outside hitter Paige Burton (2.27 kpg, 2.92 dpg), junior middle blocker Marissa Barnhart (1.37 kpg, 0.55 bpg), junior right side hitter Paige Williams (1.71 kpg) and junior defensive specialist Casey Davis (3.01 dpg).

The only missing piece from a year ago is the Pioneers’ setter. However, with the help of recently hired assistant coach Tannah Haidet, a former setter at Heidelberg, the position will get the attention it needs before the season begins on September 1 with Marietta’s River City Tournament.

The 2006 Pioneers will also travel to tournaments hosted by Washington & Jefferson (Pa.) as well as Marymount (Va.) and participate in triangular matches at Ohio Wesleyan and Otterbein to prepare for the challenges associated with their Ohio Athletic Conference schedule.