Texas State Women’s Volleyball Preview

by Miracle Robinson
Sports Reporter

As the season is under way,, the Texas State’s Women’s Volleyball team has a lot of pressure on their backs. The Bobcats finished 2^nd in the Sun Belt Conference last year with a record of 22-13, after losing to the University of Arkansas Little Rock n the championship game. Much like last year, to start the 2015 season, the Bobcats were picked to finish 2^nd in the Sun Belt Conference, with three first place votes.

As the Bobcats try and return to elite form this season, they will need some of their elite players. Coach Karen Chisum’s roster includes nine returning players, with the remainder being freshmen and transfers. After receiving her 800^th win last season, Chisum is back for her 36^th season as Texas State’s longest tenured coach. With that being said, she expects great things from her team, including the freshmen. During an interview on Bobcat Radio, coach Chisum expressed her concerns about the younger players stepping up and everyone playing with consistency. However, she spoke highly of freshman, middle blocker, Madison Dagyle, who is expected to be a key part of the Bobcats success this season.

Other key players to look at for the Bobcats are libero, Sierra Smith, and last year’s Sun Belt Conference Freshman of the Year, Jordan Kohl. Smith is entering her senior year with the Bobcats, as she looks to command the middle of the floor with her presence. Leading the team with 520 digs last season, Smith became the biggest defensive factor for her team. As for Kohl, the lefty, she is one of the most dominant forces upfront for the Bobcats, alongside Kelsey Weynand and transfer, Morgan Lewis.

Unfortunately for the team, they are struggling on the road with three straight losses to open the season. The Bobcats seek their first action at home September 3^rd, with their annual Delta Zeta Classic tournament. The teams invited are UTSA, Prairie View A&M, Lamar, Indiana and Oregon.