Established Belgreen program plans to serve up wins

Susie Tverberg is in her third year as the Belgreen volleyball coach, with high expectations for her experienced Lady Bulldogs.

Q: Who are your top returning players?

A: Our top returning players are senior Kaley Chandler and junior Noelle Willingham.

Kaley will step into the role of our leading hitter this year. Noelle is our setter and passer. She is athletic, quick and very competitive. She has improved tremendously since last year.

Q: Who are some other players you expect to make an impact and why?

A: I expect seniors Madison Vandiver and Nora Castillo to play important roles as leaders. Madison will play all the way around as a hitter, blocker and passer. Nora will play back row as a passer. Sophomore Hannah Borden was an excellent server last year; I feel she will be even stronger and more accurate this year. Eighth–grader Makayla Willingham will be our returning libero.

Q: What have you learned about your team through summer and heading into fall practice?

A: During our summer playdates I learned we must be strong defensively and serve with a purpose. We are not blessed with a ton of height, so we must be able to cover hits, tips and blocks. I feel if we run our system effectively and play defense the way we are capable, we will be a competitive squad.

Q: What are your expectations of this team?

A: Our expectations are to get better and grow in skilled positions and grow as a team during the season. Our ultimate goal is to make it to the state tournament in Pelham. In order for us to do that, we must meet our goals of qualifying as the runner-up or champion in our area.

Belgreen competes in Class 1A Area 14 with Hackleburg, Phillips and R. A. Hubbard.