After a long offseason, the Illinois Valley Central volleyball team is almost back in action and ready to make a long playoff run.
This year’s Lady Ghosts are led by seniors Jessie Ely, Marci Fletcher, Ashley Kluge, Amy Berchtold and Shya Kohler.
“Their experience on the team last year really helps,” coach Lisa Miller said. “Ely is one who will take over in terms of being a power hitter for us.”
Helping out the seniors will be sophomores Libby Rutan, Emily Bartlett and Laura Hedden.
“All three of our sophomores are excellent hitters,” Miller said.
Rounding out the team is freshman setter Brooke Ratcliff.
Last season, the team made a deep playoff run before losing in the super-sectional.
“I think we’re just trying to get back to where we were last year and even further,” Miller said. “There’s a lot of enthusiasm with this bunch to get out and play.”
Much like last year, the strength of the Ghosts will remain with their ability to keep opponents from racking up points.
“Strengthwise, we have a pretty good defense again,” Miller said. “We have some good girls in the back row and pretty solid passing overall.”
Despite the strength of the defense and the leadership of the experience senior class, the Ghosts will still face challenges all year.
“We’re going to have to put it all together down the stretch and know our opponents’ weaknesses,” Miller said. “We just need to make sure we put the ball where it needs to go.”
With plenty of playoff experience behind the team, the Lady Ghosts are anxious to get back on the court and make a run for State.
“They’re really confident for the season to start,” Miller said. “This group really loves volleyball and can’t wait for the season to get going.”
Last season the team finished 30-6 and won the North Central Illinois Conference.
