Lions ready to surprise
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Steve Virgen
When the Vanguard women’s volleyball team had five players leave
the squad last year, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It
was then -- after a season with a forgettable record (6-25, 2-18 in
the Golden State Athletic Conference) -- that the Lions concentrated
on filling the spots with difference-makers, including three who
should provide Vanguard with improvement and excitement this season.
“We had five players who were released or decided they didn’t want
to compete at this level anymore,” said Vanguard Coach Erikka
Gulbranson, who is in her second year after assisting at USC for
three years. “We are significantly better with the new players we
have. I think some people are going to wonder where did Vanguard come
from. Vanguard volleyball is definitely different.”
The Lions feature three NCAA Division I transfers. Junior Jamie
Hedin (5-foot-8) and Sarah Bosch (6-1) have transferred from the
University of North Carolina-Greensboro. The two outside hitters are
expected to make an instant impact.
Sophomore Stephanie Pfau earned a scholarship to play at Cal State
Northridge, but the 5-11 middle blocker decided to set her sights on
Vanguard. Aside from the three newcomers, the Lions will also be
strengthened by the return of sophomore setter Jennifer Johnson and
freshman Krystal Lee, who is expected to be one of the best defenders
in the GSAC.
“She is lightning quick,” Gulbranson said of Lee. “She will knock
down chairs to get to the ball. She is super fun to watch. We joke
with her every day, saying that she needs a helmet.”
Freshman Keri DeHaas, a 5-7 setter from Mayfair High, figures to
add depth, and 5-9 freshman Jaclyn Lee, “a real smart front row
player,” will also contribute.
The middle of the pack is a logical finish, time will tell.
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