Entering her third season as head coach of the Wright City volleyball team, Christine Goldsmith is excited about her roster but struggling to keep those players in practices.
The Wildcats, who …
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Entering her third season as head coach of the Wright City volleyball team, Christine Goldsmith is excited about her roster but struggling to keep those players in practices.
The Wildcats, who finished 7-8 last season, are already dealing with the challenge of players being quarantined due to COVID-19.
“The girls that are here are really putting in hard work,” said Goldsmith. “We’re struggling to keep everybody healthy and on the court as much as possible.”
The Wildcats welcome back senior Michele Helmig, who collected five aces on 75 serves and 10 kills on 65 attacks.
“She’s going to be one of our leading hitters this season,” said Goldsmith. “Michelle is a really great leader and will be a strong role model for our girls.”
Senior Abby Baxter also returns for the Wildcats after recording six aces on 70 attacks, while adding seven blocks.
“She’s going to be used more on the defensive side,” said Goldsmith. “She has a lot of really good skills all around. If we ask her to switch positions, she’s always up for the challenge.”
One of Wright City’s biggest contributors the past two years has been Jasmin Simpson, who enters her junior season with high expectations. Last fall she recorded six aces on 98 serves and had 35 kills on 108 attacks.
“She’s definitely going to be our power middle position,” said Goldsmith. “She’s an incredible athlete and a natural born volleyball player. During practice she’s really been focusing on her skills and how to improve. We’re going to see a lot of amazing things from her offensively.”
The Wildcats will also look to sophomore Paige Freiner as a hitter and all-around player, along with junior Cassie Reash.
“I’m really excited to add them to this team, because they are both very talented and play outside of school, putting a lot of work into their craft.”
Tawny Head will serve as a defensive specialist, while sophomore Cayle Redmon provide another middle hitter for Wright City.
The Wildcats will have a new pair of setters in Jessica Dunning and Anna Sanford, who are both new to varsity.
“I’m hoping defense is going to be our strength,” said Goldsmith. “A lot of the girls are smart players, so hopefully they’ll put us in position for our defense to be strong and give our offense a chance to take charge. They’re quick and know when to get to the ball.”
After graduating six seniors last year, the Wildcats are determined to develop this new group of varsity players.
“Our goal is to grow a knowledge base for these girls,” said Goldsmith. “Hopefully next year have a really good understanding and be even more confident.”
The Wildcats are hopeful to compete for conference and defeat reigning league champion Montgomery County.
“We have a lot of away games this year, so that’ll be a fun bonding experience on those long bus rides,” said Goldsmith.
