2011 Volleyball Season Preview

Under the tutelage of second year head coach Jodi Lindsay the Caltech women's volleyball squad is looking for continued improvement. The Beavers will bring back some solid offense along the front row while looking to replace players who have graduated from the program.

"There are returning players at certain positions who will be vital to the program's development. We also have to fill some vacancies quickly if we are going to build momentum throughout the season," Lindsay said. 

Leading the charge among returning student-athletes along the front line is Paige Logan. The sophomore was the team leader in kills (118) and blocks (18) last season. In addition to her offensive exploits she was second on the team with 15 service aces.

The Beavers also bring back Teri Juarez and Rebekah Kitto to help strengthen the net attack. Juarez's 87 kills was third most of the squad while being the second leading points producer (1.92 points/set) for Caltech. During her first year of organized volleyball Kitto was listed among the team's top five in kills and blocks.

The offensive attack will need to find a replacement at the outside hitter position after the graduation of Kati Peters. Last season Peters was second in all major attack categories. After not playing during the 2010 season, Erin Hoops returns for her senior year to help bolster the front line.

"Paige had a nice season during her first year in college and I'm looking forward to seeing how she will assist our efforts this year. The loss of Kati is a significant one but with a trio of players coming back I think we can replace her offensive production if Teri, Rebekah and Erin continue to work hard," Lindsay said.

The back row defense will need to find a replacement at the defensive specialist position after the graduation of Ying Ying Tran. In addition to being among the school's career leaders in digs, last season Tran was listed among the league leaders in digs. Her departure leaves the libero spot up for grabs during preseason practices.

"While Ying Ying's departure leaves us with a vacancy on the back row, I think we will have players who will fit in nicely this year into that position," Lindsay said.

Heading into the preseason the biggest question mark centers around the setter position with last year's starter Megan Jackson studying overseas this semester. The most likely candidate to take that spot is Rachel Hess who tallied 52 assists and replaced Jackson from time-to-time during her first season on-campus.

"We certainly have a hole to fill at the setter position. During the early season practices I expect to take a good look at a handful of players who will distribute our offense," Lindsay said.

The Beavers begin the season with a home match against Pacific Union on Sept. 6. After a series of non-conference matches, Caltech plays its first SCIAC match on Sept. 22 against La Verne. Heading into the season the conference features two teams (Cal Lutheran and Occidental) ranked in the nation's top 25.

"There is a lot to look forward to this season. This program has an opportunity to grow and build momentum," Lindsay said. "If the players put the effort forth in practice I think we will see good results during our matches.".

View Coach Lindsay's video preview --