2008 Mid Season Volleyball Report
Tiger's volleyball team has experienced a rebuilding year that will
enable the Tigers to make great strides to improve the program for next
year. SIU Softball Coach Steve Potts took on the reigns as Interim Head
Coach this year while the university searched for a new full-time Head
Coach. Potts was the assistant coach for volleyball for several years.
The volleyball team hit a dramatic low spot when they were forced to
start the season with just 11 players. The late departure of a coach
that resulted in some last minute recruit losses and eligibility issues
created a challenge. In spite of these, the volleyball team continues
to put out their best efforts. Key returning player Kassidy Nutter
suffered a season-ending fractured thumb. At the time of the injury
Nutter lead the WVIAC in blocks and attacks per match. "She had a great
start to a season that was cut short. Would have been nice to have
throughout the year and really look forward to her coming back next
year," said interim coach Steve Potts.
What is not indicative in the
record thus far is that they have done great with what they have
performed beyond expectation. Surprising basketball player, Melissa
Anger has excelled in her role as a middle hitter. First year in
college volleyball, she has 55 kills; and second on the team with 11
serve aces. "She came on real fast as a first year player and does a
great job in the middle," said Potts.
Senior four-year starter Ellie
Bliss has lead the team in numerous ways. She has played the part as a
vocal captain and most important a role model to the younger athletes
and red shirt players. Ellie currently leads the team with an
astonishing 154 assist with 95 digs and 24 total blocks. Said Steve
"Ellie is one of the best setters in the conference, a great leader,
and a real pleasure to coach."
Kayla Lewis, another senior
starter, has taken the season in great strides. She currently is 7th in
the conference in service aces with 17 and also boasts 79 digs on the
year. Alicia Potts, another senior starter, has excelled up front all
year. Her 49 kills ranked tied for second on the team with her sister,
Amy Potts. Alicia has also led the team up front with 28 total blocks.
Tori Lease, along with the previous senior starters, is a defensive
specialist. Started the season late due to an infection, she has caught
up quickly and amassed 82 digs in 33 games. "All three of them have had
solid senior years. They have been playing out of position all year.
Also, they have improved and learned every aspect of the game by
playing different positions" said Potts.
Sophomore Amy Potts has evolved as
a leader in her second full season. Like her sister, she has 49 kills
and an impressive 98 digs. "Amy has done a great job playing out of
position this year. She's a good base for the new coach to build on
next year."
Hannah Hoover, after sitting out
last season as a red shirt freshman, entered the season late and has
became aware of her role and made great strides on defense. She adds to
the enforcement in the backfield. "Hannah has improved and learned a
great deal throughout the season," Potts said.
Ashley Garcia returned late to
the team after a difficult family situation. She is a returning
sophomore, who like Hannah, boosts the defensive shield. Says Steve
"Ashley has battled through family difficulties early in the season and
has made a smooth transition into game play."
The Tigers have a few games left in this long season as they start to
prepare for next year. As a fan and Sports Information Director, I
enjoyed watching them evolve as a team and mature as adults throughout
the season. The future certainly looks bright for this bunch.
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Jamie Shoemaker
