By: Connor Castle

As the academic year at West Virginia Wesleyan College draws to a close, anticipation is building for the upcoming fall sports season. Among the teams preparing for action is the WVWC volleyball team, which is gearing up for what promises to be an exciting season ahead.

Reflecting on the past season, where they finished with a 7-19 record, the team is eager to turn the tide and make significant strides in the upcoming campaign. Despite the challenges faced, including a relatively young roster with only four seniors, the team remains optimistic about their prospects for the future.

With their season finale victory against Davis & Elkins College providing a positive note to end on, the team has been hard at work during the offseason, focusing on refining their skills and building team chemistry in preparation for the challenges that lie ahead.

One of the key factors in the team’s optimism is the arrival of a promising class of freshmen recruits, who are expected to inject new energy and talent into the squad. Coupled with the return of experienced players, including standout performers such as Hope Arce-Reed, Alexis Moeschler, Sarah McCall, and Bhrooke Axe, the team is poised to make significant improvements.

Head coach Nancy Wheeler, along with assistant coaches Jennifer Hefner and Ashley Stanton, bring a wealth of experience to the sidelines, providing valuable guidance and leadership to the team as they strive for success.

In a recent interview, WVWC volleyball player Laci Armes emphasized the strong bond that exists within the team, highlighting their camaraderie both on and off the court. Armes expressed confidence in the team’s ability to come together and overcome challenges as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Looking ahead, Armes identified a key focus for the team as they prepare to face their opponents, emphasizing the importance of understanding their rivals’ strategies and adapting accordingly. Despite facing personal injury setbacks in the previous season, Armes remains optimistic about the team’s prospects, citing the depth of talent and camaraderie within the squad as key factors in their potential success.

As the countdown to the 2024 volleyball season begins, fans are eagerly awaiting the release of the team’s schedule, eager to support their favorite players as they take to the court. With optimism running high and anticipation building, all eyes are on the WVWC volleyball team as they aim to make their mark in the upcoming season.