Despite Roster Turnover, Lady Eagles Optimistic In 2020

It’s a fresh start for the Lady Eagles volleyball team.

With the loss of six seniors and two-year starter Rylee Denbow, Sullivan will have a whole new look this fall.

Head coach Sarah Rochleau said despite the exodus of talent, the new group stepping in is ready to go.

“I’ve been extremely happy with this new group of athletes and the energy they bring,” said Rochleau, who has guided Sullivan to three district titles. “We’ve got two outstanding senior leaders, four juniors who will be new to the varsity and three sophomores who all had some varsity experience last season.”

Rochleau said no matter the opponent, Sullivan will compete hard.

“Our first week went great,” she said. “We’ve got 27 girls to fill out our varsity, junior varsity and C team (9/10).”

COVID-19 didn’t interrupt Sullivan’s summer.

“Throughout June we were able to meet in small groups twice a week, with an average of more than 30 girls in attendance each evening,” Rochleau said. “In July, we were able to able to participate in numerous scrimmages, host our team camp and all three teams attended the Licking Summer Camp.”

Rochleau said it was a great summer.

“We played a lot of volleyball and by following our school’s COVID-19 guidelines, we were able to do so in a safe manner.”

Sullivan’s complete roster was not available, but Saige Carey, Parker Williamson, Emma Brune, Morgan Clonts, Maci Nolie and Abby Wiegers are all listed as of Monday.

All players saw some varsity action last season.

Nolie got on the floor for 75 of 76 games. As a setter, she had a team-high 485 assists, tallied 109 points with 15 kills and seven aces.

Carey played libero and received 267 serves. She had 176 digs, which was fifth on the team. She also had 129 points and 23 aces.

Emma Brune contributed 108 kills, which was second to Mallory Shetley. Brune finished with 70 points and seven aces as outside hitter.

Sullivan will get the season started on Tuesday, Sept. 1 at home against Blair Oaks. They play again at home on Tuesday, Sept. 8 against Waynesville.