Northampton Area High School Volleyball Girls Season Preview

As the new school year approaches, Northampton Area High School's volleyball team is gearing up for a fresh start. After a tough season last year, Coach Mike Holihan and his team are aiming to come out stronger and more determined than ever. In this preview article, we had the opportunity to speak with Coach Holihan about his team's goals, returning players, new additions, and more. The team has set a high goal for themselves this season - to make playoffs and hopefully bring home a title for the first time in program history. To achieve this, they will have to rely on their top returning players from last season who will play crucial roles in the team's success. Senior setter Addison Morgan brings athleticism and positive energy to the court which can make her a dynamic weapon on offense. Senior outside hitter Claire Erdman, who unfortunately missed half of last season due to an ankle injury, was leading the team in both digs and attacks before her injury. Her return to the team this year will be a major boost to their lineup. Additionally, senior Libero Lizzy Sheldon will be a strong hand on defense and is looking to hit a milestone of 1,000 digs this season. As for new players, Coach Holihan is excited about the potential impact that they will have on the team. One player to keep an eye on is senior middle hitter Izzy Pecuch, who also plays another sport for the school. Her work ethic and determination make her a valuable addition to the team and she has the potential to become a problem for their opponents. When it comes to choosing team captains, Coach Holihan looks for players who can bring different qualities to the table. This year, the team will be led by three captains - Morgan Chandler, Lizzy Sheldon, and Claire Erdman. They will be responsible for keeping a positive and fun atmosphere while also being able to switch gears and bring intensity during practices and games. Building team chemistry and camaraderie is crucial for any successful team, and Coach Holihan plans to do so by utilizing his captains and encouraging positivity and teamwork among all players. He also acknowledges that communication and positive reinforcement are key to building a strong and cohesive team. As with any team, there are always challenges and obstacles to overcome. For Coach Holihan and his players, one of the biggest challenges is the lack of practice time before the start of the season.