Lakota East Volleyball Off To Strong Start

The Lakota East girls' volleyball team is off to a fast start this fall.  5-1 overall, 2-1 GMC).

Second year head coach Erin Iceman is cautiously optimistic, but not surprised. “Our early success this season has been based on our passing, defense, ability to cut down on unforced errors, and our wide range of hitters that can step up at any time,” said Iceman. “This years team is difficult for opponents to play against as we possess a variety of offensive threats. A big key so far is that everyone on the team has been contributing.”

Highlight the “team effort” have been many noted individual contributions according to Iceman.

“Each and every one of the players have improved from last year,” said Iceman. “Junior Haley Lippert has stepped up and taken turns with senior Katelyn Wills to lead us in kills. Senior Christine Kotter has done a great job adjusting to a new position in the middle. Junior middle hitter Liz Trentman is leading us in hitting percentage (.564) and blocks. Our right side hitters Colleen Krajewski and Kelsey King have been consistent this year with flashes of great play. Experienced senior setter Brittany Weinheimer has led us in assists and Stephanie Neltner has stepped up to the varsity level this year with confidence. Crystal Wachtel's senior leadership in the back row has been important in crunch time situations. Sophomore libero Meredith Garda has proved her ability to cover a lot of ground on defense as well leading the team in digs.”

Last year East finished 2nd in the GMC to cross town rival Lakota West. Upcoming conference matches against West (away, Sept. 19th), Sycamore (home, Sept. 25th) and Mason (away, Oct. 2nd) will be key in determining who comes out on top in the GMC in 2007.