Falkville looks to repeat as area champs
By Staff
Charles Prince, Hartselle Enquirer
Falkville – Three head coaches in three seasons. It's causing problems for the Falkville Lady Blue Devils volleyball team.
"I sense a lack of enthusiasm from the girls," coach Jeff Andrews said. "But it's not the girls' fault. They've had a new coach each of the past three seasons and that has to be hard on them. They haven't had a set routine because of the changes. Then when someone new comes in, they don't know what to expect. It's tough on them trying to get used to a new coach once again."
Andrews was named the school's new coach just two days before classes began. He's had only one week of practice to evaluate his team, but he's confident he inherited a talented group.
"I see athletic ability," Andrews said. "Some of the girls have experience of playing on a winner and that's going to help."
The Lady Blue Devils won the Class 2A Area 15 championship in 2003 under the direction of coach Amy Keel.
Key players from that team must be replaced, as All-Area selections Megan Wiley, Ashley Williams and Amanda Holmes have all graduated.
Andrews is counting on returning players from that championship team to take on leadership roles with their play.
Those returning players include seniors Katie Childers and Ashley Tucker, juniors Kayla Widener and Savannah Story and sophomore Laura Holladay.
Andrews feels the Lady Blue Devils interact well with each other on the court.
"This team has real good communication," Andrews said. "Communication is huge in volleyball. A team that communicates well has a chance to be consistent."
Andrews stated that Falkville's other strong point is their passing and setting the ball up for one another. His forecast for the season is a repeat of last season.
"I think we can win our area again," Andrews said. "We've got some good players to work with and the ones who are back know what it's like to win."
Falkville opens the 2004 campaign on Aug. 20 when they travel to Winston County.
The Lady Blue Devils begin home play on Sept. 2 when they host Clements and Tanner.
