Expectations are high for the Wright City volleyball team, which returns six experienced players from last season.

Second-year Coach Christine Klem is excited about the makeup of the program, which includes three players she has worked with since middle school and a promising lineup of newcomers.

“The girls we have coming back are all very versatile and strong leaders, so we’re really excited to have them taking over leadership this year,” said Klem.

Reagan Chareleworth returns for her third year as the Wildcats’ primary setter.

“She is an awesome leader and a really skilled player,” said Klem. “She really gets the girls motivated and keeps them on task.”

Meanwhile, Peyton Hart provides strength at middle hitter.

“She is very talented and has great movement with her hips,” said Klem.

Twin sisters Emily and Ashleigh Williams will serve as defensive specialists.

“They are quiet but work well with the other girls and have that twin telepathy connection,” said Klem.

Emily Schanuel will be shifting from setter to more of a hitter role.

“She’s really talented so I think she’ll be just fine with that switch,” said Klem.

The Wildcats welcome basketball standout sophomore Jasmin Simpson, who joins the team for the first time.

“We’re definitely excited to see her play on the varsity volleyball team this year and give her some more of that leadership role too,” said Klem.

Wright City has three juniors whom Klem has nurtured since her time as middle school coach. Michele Helmig will play outside hitter, while Abby Baxter serves as middle or outside hitter. Jamya Mozee will be a defensive specialist.

“I think our defense is going to look a lot better in those fundamental basic skills,” said Klem. “This group of girls has proven to be fundamentally sound. When our defense is strong, I’m hoping our offense will benefit as well.”

Jordyn Callahan will serve as libero.

“She’s really talented, and we’re excited to see her come out of her shell,” said Klem, who is encouraging her players to be adaptable entering a season with unknowns.

“I’ve been telling them to keep an open mind, because things are probably not going to look like they have in the past. We have to be patient and go with the flow as we’ll figure it out as we go.”