Aug. 18, 2009
LAS VEGAS - The UNLV Rebel volleyball program has just completed its first week of preparations for the 2009 season. The Rebels open up the season in Gainesville, Fla., on Aug. 28-29 at the Campus USA Credit Union Invitational where they will face Florida and Valparaison.
We caught up with head coach Allison Keeley after the team's first week and got some thoughts on this year's team.
Opening statement...
The team looks great. They are strong and explosive and in good shape. We have been able to train hard without injury and fatigue.
On this year's team...
They really are a fun team to watch. They are very talented and athletic. They like to compete and play well together. There is a ton of potential that is helped with a good balance of experience and athleticism. They want to win and work hard each day to get better.
On having 12 returning players...
We've been able to jump right into game situations. We can experiment with different lineups and work on higher level skills and drills.
On filling the holes left by Camille Cunningham's and Melody Nua's departure...
Those are big shoes to fill. senior Sam Richard has stepped up to take the leadership position as a setter. We may also run a 6-2 with Amanda Alles, who is also ready to play as a sophomore. As for the defense, we have three really strong players in juniors Kela Lau Hee and Jeralynn Makaiwi and freshman Nile Te'o.
On players to watch...
Everyone! We are a very balanced team and everyone has the ability to contribute. A few that are looking really good in practice right now are Richard, Te'o and the 2008 conference freshman of the year, Cursty Jackson.
