Sports
Hopes Soar for Dedham Volleyball Team
Summer conditioning may prove to be turning point for the program.
For the first time in 34 years, the volleyball team will take to the court this fall without Marge Bohan as their head coach.
In her final season last year, Bohan brought on teacher Stephanie Adams as co-head coach, and Adams officially took the reins last week on her own.
“We look pretty good, even if our numbers are a little low,” Adams said. “I think we are going to have a pretty good season, better than we have in the past.
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“Our hitting looks really good, especially up at the net,” according to Adams. “The power they’ve been getting from our setters and the passing in the back row looks well.”
Junior Jodi Munchbach, who in beginning her third year on the varsity, concurs.
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“We have a lot of great hitters,” said Munchbach. “I think our offense is going to be the strongest point for the team.”
While the front and the back both look good, the loss of two setters in the middle to graduation has left a void that needs to be filled.
“Coming into this season I was worried about that,” Adams admitted. “We have a couple players who are all on the same level, so I am looking for that one who is going to step up and shine.”
Adams also credits the leadership exhibited by several upperclassman and said it has helped build a great camaraderie on the team. This, she hopes, will pay dividends on the court.
“They are constantly pumping each other up and cheering each other on when the drills get tough,” said Adams.
The improved team spirit is also cited by senior Ally Hargas, who said that if they improve as a team she will consider the season a successful one.
Also in their favor, players and coaches agree, is the improved physical condition level coming into the season, thanks to the team took part in over the summer.
“Everyone’s more in shape this year,” Hargas said. “Definitely in better shape.”
Both Hargas and Munchbach credit that to Adams, who they say is pushing them harder and keeping them in line. While all say they expect good things this season, no one is expecting it to be easy.
“Just trying to compete in this league is going to be a challenge,” Adams said, “but we’re going to start to change this program, and hopefully have a winning season.
“I’m just really excited to tell you the truth.”
Check out the volleyball team's .
