Preview: C’view Lady Knights volleyball

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent sports editor

CONVOY — On the heels of a 18-6 (7-1 NWC, 2nd place) season, Crestview is looking for even bigger and better things during the upcoming volleyball season.

12th year head coach Tammy Gregory must fill the void left by the graduation of three All-NWC players – Ally McCoy, Abigail Bagley and Lyvia Black. All three were three time letter winners.

However, the 2017 NWC Coach of the Year has four returning letter winners at her disposal – senior middle hitter/setter Avery McCoy, junior outside hitter Lexi Gregory (first team All-NWC, honorable mention District 8), junior outside hitter Lauryn Black, and sophomore outside hitter/defensive specialist Bailey Gregory.

Gregory noted she likes what she’s seen during the offseason, and recent practices.

“I’m very pleased with what I’ve seen so far with this group of girls,” Gregory explained. “They are working very hard and know what it takes to be successful. Our defense has been battling and getting most balls up to our setter for the aggressive attack.”

“We have big shoes to fill and maybe stepping into a new role, but I have confidence in this group of girls,” Gregory continued. “They work well together, love competing and determined to achieve their set goals, but most importantly have fun doing it.”

Along with the returning letter winners, Gregory has a group of promising newcomers to work with, including senior middle hitter Kimber Adams, junior defensive specialist Aleigh Chesbro, junior middle hitter Laney Jones, junior setter Maddy Lamp, junior outside hitter/middle hitter Kaylee Wolford, and sophomore outside hitter/middle hitter Raegan Hammons. Two other sophomores – Kali Small and Lexi Dull will compete for playing time at the varsity level.

“Each player understands their role, pushes one another to their limits, and continues to finish strong,” Gregory said. “We will have players in different positions this season and we need each of them to accept that role and do what is needed for the team.”

The general consensus is the 2018 NWC title race should be a tight one, with a number of teams expected to contend for the championship.

“I see our conference being very competitive again this year,” Gregory said. “So many of the teams in the NWC have so much potential and it could be a battle on any given night. We strive to be at the top and will continue to focus on one game at a time. Can’t look past any team.”

The Lady Knights are scheduled to open the season at home August 25, with a tri-match against Archbold and Styker. The NWC conference opener will be September 11 at Columbus Grove.