Pioneers set to open 2010 campaign
Roxanne Neely sets for Ariel Ajagu (right). Both are expected to be major contributors in 2010. (Photo: Sam Willard)
- August 16, 2010
HAYWARD, Calif. - The Pioneer women’s volleyball team will begin practice on Aug. 16 for the upcoming 2010 campaign.
Competing as an NCAA Division II institution for the first time since 1997, East Bay completed the 2009 campaign with a 10-21 record. The Pioneers initial season as a member of the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) resulted in an 8-14 record and a tie for seventh place.
East Bay returns 12 players including all six starters and the libero. Roxanne Neely, who enjoyed a terrific season in 2009, setting and attacking in the 6-2 offense, returns for her senior campaign.
"Roxy is a huge part of our offense, and will be counted on to lead both mentally and physically on and off the court," Pioneer Head Coach Jim Spagle said.
Another returning senior is Lauren Massa who played both libero and defensive specialist last season and holds the East Bay record for career digs as a libero.
"Lauren will add a significant amount to her career dig total this season," Spagle said.
Sukhjit Athwal, the Pioneers top offensive weapon last season with 2.55 kills per set, will be counted on to add offensive production at the outside hitter position.
Ariel Ajagu, who had some excellent matches for the Pioneers last season, will provide both outstanding offensive skills along with quality blocking at the net in the middle hitter position.
Cara Crowder adds solid offensive skills at both the outside hitter and opposite positions along with quality defensive skills in the back row.
Leta Pickett, the Pioneers most improved player during the off-season, will be looked upon to provide both powerful offense and a solid block on the right side.
Katie Glomb is the Pioneers top serve receiver and will be counted on to provide great passing and defense from both the libero and defensive specialist positions this season.
Amanda Limeberger returns for her senior campaign, coming off a season that saw her share setting duties with Neely. Limeberger finished the 2009 campaign second on the team with a 3.77 assists per set average and fourth on the squad with 18 service aces.
"Amanda is the hardest working athlete in our program," Spagle said. "She set for us last year in the 6-2 offense and will be counted on to provide strong setting and leadership in the upcoming season."
An outstanding recruiting season landed four new players expected to contribute immediately towards a successful Pioneer campaign.
Mona Goudarzian, a 5-11 outside hitter from West Albany High School in Albany, Ore., is a player Spagle believes could develop into a future All-American.
"Mona’s great work ethic and her rare combination of excellent offensive and defensive skills will be on display early in our season," Spagle said.
KC Walsh, a senior transfer from Loyola Marymount, will be a major contributor for the Pioneers this season.
"I expect KC to be a big part of our team once she understands both our offensive and defensive principles," Spagle said. "KC is a dynamic setter and displays excellent offensive skills."
Katie Allen, a 5-11 outside hitter out of Modesto Christian High School, is another promising newcomer.
"Katie has star quality written all over her," Spagle said. "She is dynamic, plays with a presence and will be a key athlete in the East Bay volleyball program her freshman season."
Jade Sanford, a 5-8 middle blocker, is a sophomore transfer from South Carolina State.
"Though she's a bit undersized for the middle, Jade makes up for it with speed, power and a relentless attitude," Spagle said.
The Pioneers will open the 2009 campaign at Alaska-Fairbanks on Sept. 2. East Bay opens the home campaign on Sept. 7 against Notre Dame de Namur.