By Tara Sowle
UWRF Sports Information

This year’s Falcon volleyball team welcomes nine new and talented players to the roster.

“We have a very strong group of first year players. They are all making the adjustments to collegiate volleyball faster than many classes I've had. And I've had some great groups. Any and all of them could get playing time throughout the season, “ said Falcon Coach Patti Ford.

Out of the seven freshmen, one player in particular is standing out. Middle hitter Shelby Sand will be looked to help fill in that position along with Andrea Geehan. “Sand can become an impact player for the Flacons. She has a quality background from helping her Andover team get to state in 2003 and playing for one of the top clubs in Minnesota,” said Ford.

“It will take a few more weekends to test the other first year players. Gina Cianelli has all the skills to contribute to the Falcon offensive system as a first year setter. She has demonstrated great poise and understanding that will help her adjust quickly to the collegiate game. Kacey Barrett will help add depth to the middle corp. She has the ability to step in and help take pressure off the other middles. Drew Hample who will be called upon at a backup libero has the athleticism and skills to adapt quickly to that position.

A trio of freshmen outside hitters, Abiliene Koch, Kerissa Morrin and Nina Cooper, will add depth of the passing and defensive end of the game. All are good competitors with solid high school credentials. Morrin helped her high school team to the WIAA State Championship in 2001 and a runner up finish in 2003.

Newcomer, Krista Cordes joins the Falcons after a brief sabbatical from volleyball, but she is not unfamiliar with the WIAC and it’s competition. She is a hard working athlete who is also competes on the Falcon basketball team.

Callie Olson joins the team and adds immediate depth to the setters. She is a transfer from NCAA Div. II Washburn University. Her experience at the Div. II level will benefit the Falcons. She has been trained and played against some of the top Div. II teams.

“The first year players will have to play behind some significant juniors," said Ford. "However, all of our first year players are very athletic and tough players. They will definitely help raise the competition in practice. My expectations for them are to work hard and learn the game of volleyball as it applies to the always tough WIAC so when their time arrives they are comfortable and confident on the court.”