It’s been a busy summer for the Firebaugh High varsity volleyball squad. They hosted a youth fundamentals clinic and attended a clinic at the University of Southern California.
In between there was also plenty of work that will hopefully turn into a successful high school campaign.
The Eagles have seven returners to a squad that finished with a 15-9 record last year. Their season will begin on Aug. 15 when they host Roosevelt-Fresno.
“Our summer workouts went great,” said fifth-year coach Kacey Jones. “We were able to go over schemes for this year as well as bond and communicate as a team. We also had open gym and weight room sessions all summer long, four days a week preparing us very well for this upcoming season.”
One of the main returners Jones will be counting on is senior Judith Coreas, a setter/outside hitter.
“Judith plays full court, setting in the back row and hitting in the front row. She is our captain and leader of this team.”
Another senior standout is middle blocker Anna Silva. Jones said that Silva is “an animal on the net, hitting and blocking.”
Senior setter Lisset Ruiz is a three-year varsity starter who Jones says has the skill and mindset “to take this team far this season.”
After last year’s 15-9 season, the Eagles look to be even more successful this season, according to the coach.
“Our expectations are to outright win league,” said Jones. “Last year we fell short by one game and it stung, so this team is hungry and ready to fight. We also would love to participate in a playoff game, since the new playoff format last year took that opportunity from us.”
One of the top tournaments Firebaugh will be participating in this season is the Caruthers Raisin Harvest tournament.
“Last year we made Gold Bracket for Day-2 and we expect the same results this year.”
