Flyers Gear Up for the 2024 Season
As the Sandhills Community College Flyers prepare for the 2024-2025 volleyball season, they look to build on their accomplishments of last year with a renewed sense of determination and excitement. The Flyers finished last season with an impressive 20-9 overall record and a co-championship in Region 10. With a mix of experienced returners and a promising freshman class, the team is poised for a strong showing the fall of 2024.
Key Returners and Season Outlook
The Flyers are bolstered by the return of several key sophomores who played pivotal roles in last season's success:
- Sydney Garner (Setter): Garner returns as a crucial offensive component, having led the team with 589 assists, averaging 5.66 assists per set. Her playmaking abilities and court vision were vital for orchestrating the team's attack and ensuring smooth transitions a season ago. Garner expressed her excitement, saying, "The start of my sophomore season has been so exciting! Getting to know all the girls and just seeing how we interact on and off the court has been awesome. This team has a lot of potential to do big things this season not only in volleyball but also in the culture we bring to the gym and our campus."
- Caroline Bradford (Outside Hitter): Bradford was instrumental last season, contributing 224 kills. Her offensive consistency and leadership will be pivotal as the Flyers aim to enhance their scoring capabilities. "I'm super excited to start my second season at Sandhills," Bradford shared. "This year's team has a high skill level and high energy, and I'm really happy about how preseason is going so far."
- Lainey Mullins (Libero): As the team's defensive anchor, Mullins recorded a team-high 564 digs, averaging 5.42 digs per set. Her defensive prowess and ability to read the game make her an invaluable asset in the back row. Mullins noted, "I am very excited for this season. The energy in the gym is amazing, and everyone is so encouraging of each other. The first few practices have been great, and I'm so thrilled for the potential of this team."
- Cassidy Jewett (Middle Hitter): Jewett enters her sophomore year following a standout freshman season, where she contributed 190 kills and led the team with 70 total blocks. Her presence at the net, both offensively and defensively, will be a significant factor in the Flyers' success. Jewett mentioned, "I'm feeling a lot more confident going into my sophomore season. There's definitely a new energy in The Hangar this preseason. Everyone is eager and ready to go."
- Nikki Lambert (Defensive Specialist): Lambert provided solid performance last season, recording 295 digs. Reflecting on her final season, Lambert said, "This season is special for me because it's my last indoor season as a Flyer, but also because of the team we have this year. A lot of us have put in extra work over the summer and offseason to prepare for this fall, and I'm excited to see it all start to come together in practices."
- Ellie Everhart (Outside Hitter/Right Side): Everhart, who contributed 64 kills and 22 blocks last season, adds depth to the Flyers' offensive and defensive lineup. She shared, "The first few practices have been a very exciting glimpse into the season and have been such an amazing atmosphere. I am so excited to see how this season turns out."
- Jenna Luquer (Outside Hitter/Right Side): Luquer, another key returner, contributed 28 kills and provided versatile play in both offensive and defensive roles. "I am extremely excited for my sophomore year," Luquer expressed. "Seeing that we have a strong freshman support group lets me know we will have a great season. The first few practices have been great, but I am more than ready for our first game!"
- Zoey Hall (Setter): Hall, who recorded 28 assists last season, will continue to support the team's offensive setup. Hall is particularly enthusiastic about the fan support, stating, "The start of my sophomore year has been great so far. I get most excited about filling up the stands with support that radiates throughout the gym."
New Faces and Fresh Energy
As the Sandhills Community College Flyers gear up for the 2024 season, the sophomores above welcome a talented group of freshmen, each bringing unique skills and a fresh perspective to the team. Bolstering the front line are Kristin Dodds, Ashlee Dyer, Anyssia Mains, Julia Porter, Reagan Smith, Haley Whitaker, and Katelyn Bunting. In the back row, Jacque Holden and Mariana Clayton join the ranks. Together, these freshmen are set to inject new energy and enthusiasm into the Flyers' roster, complementing the experience of the returning players and setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
Reflections on Last Season
The Flyers ended the 2023-2024 season with a strong showing, including a 6-2 record in Region 10 play. They reached the championship match of the Region 10 tournament, where they fought hard but ultimately fell to Caldwell Tech. The team's resilience was on display in the semifinals, where they swept Patrick & Henry Community College. Notable performances included standout defensive play from Mullins and offensive contributions from Bradford. Both of whom earned All-Region 10 honors. The Flyers will kick off the season at home with their annual alumni scrimmage on Saturday August 10th at 11am followed by another scrimmage on Saturday August 17th against St. Andrews University and Cape Fear Community College beginning at 11am. The regular season opens in The Hangar on Thursday August 22nd hosting Guilford Tech at 6pm.