By Scott Collins
The Ladycats are coming back this season after a strong year that ended in a 10th Region run. Coach Danielle French is looking forward to this year and believes she may have one of the strongest teams in program history.
A lot of work goes in to preparing a team. Coach French didn’t waste time as she had her team practicing as soon as the Dead Period ended and in the gym Monday through Friday.
Looking at the team’s make up there are a few names fans need to watch for during a match. Sophomore Allison Aulick who was second on the team last season with 161 kills. If the Ladycats are going to score then the ball is probably coming off a touch by Senior Kylie Richardson who racked up a whopping 626 assists last season. Junior Skylar Harrison will be looked to help contain the opposing team’s attack building on her 195 Digs from last year. If you attended any matches last season then you know the team builds around the play of Sophomore Madison Verst who completed last season with 191 Kills and 753 Digs.
Coach French said of her team expectations for this season, “We have a large group this year so I’m excited to see all the talent progression through the season.”
The Ladycats played a strong schedule last season and this year will be no different including another appearance in the Glacier Invitational where they will face off against Boone County, Lexington Christian and Bracken County. Of course being in the same district Harrison County will provide two tough matches for the Ladycats.
Looking at District match ups Coach French said,
“Harrison County is always the favorite. We hope to play well against them in season play this year.”
Harrison County who finished with a 24-13 record last season has dominated the 38th District. Teams know they have to be able to compete and beat the Lady Fillies or any post season dreams will be short.
Nicholas County finished last season 9-14 and ended their season with a first round district loss to Pendleton County.
Robertson County had a young squad last season and finished 6-13 and looks to improve with the experience gained with their younger players.
No matter though as all the teams know someone has to improve to the point where they can knock the Lady Fillies off the top of the hill. Otherwise all teams are playing for the second or third seed to stay away from Harrison County in the first round of district tournament play.
Coach French closed by saying,
“I have four strong seniors this year and very talented underclassman. Pendleton Volleyball is doing big things.”
The Ladycats start the season on the road at Mason County on August 16 at 7 p.m. then the home opener on August 17 at 7 p.m. against Dayton.
