The McDonald County volleyball team has its hopes set high this season with several players returning to the varsity squad.
After a 9-22-2 campaign a year ago, the Mustangs boast a large senior class full of varsity experience to go along with something they haven’t had a lot of in recent seasons—depth.
“We are incredibly excited about the upcoming season,” McDonald County coach Logan Grab said. “Our summer was so much fun, so I am certain that this season is going to be even better.”
McDonald County’s list of returners is highlighted by senior setter Jayden Forcum, senior MH Savannah Leib and sophomore OH Carlie Martin, all of whom were starters last season.
“Jayden has settled into her role as the varsity setter over the past year and has provided our team with the opportunity to run a strong offense,” Grab said of her returning starters. “Savannah has proven to be a strong offensive and defensive player … She brings a high level of energy to the court along with the discipline to perform well in a variety of situations.
“(Carlie) has committed herself to building consistency in her gameplay and made distinct progress over the past year. Her volleyball IQ makes her a strong decision-maker who will capitalize on situations she is presented with on the court.”
Also returning with varsity experience is senior OH Teea Corcoran, senior OH River Killion, senior libero Yarecci Quintero, sophomore MH/OH Layla Wallain and sophomore OH Kayana Fields.
“With more depth than we have had in several years, we expect to be a competitive, gritty team every time we step on the court,” Grab said. “While it will not be an easy task, we expect to have a successful season because of the dedication our athletes and coaches have to being the best they can be.”
Also expected to make an impact at the varsity level this year are senior Peyton Cooper, junior MH Roslynn Huston and sophomore OH/S Jamie Washam.
With so many players returning, the Mustangs are focusing on playing with balance and continuity. Coach Grab believes all the work they have put in this offseason in that area will pay off come regular season action. Of course, the key to playing balanced is playing with consistency, and Coach Grab knows her team will have to be more consistent, particularly on offense, if they want to reach their goals.
“We have focused on working toward becoming a balanced team that can handle offensive and defensive situations equally,” Grab said. “If we remain focused on executing that mission, that will undoubtedly be our biggest strength this year which will help us have a chance at playing for a conference and/or district title and beyond.
“Being able to consistently put the ball away during offensive opportunities continues to be an area we want to improve. This is something that comes with more experience, and we have already seen leaps and bounds of improvement over the summer that we hope to see continue as the season progresses.”
McDonald County opens the season up at home against Gravette on Aug. 28 before hosting Carthage on Aug. 29.
