Chargers Amp Up For Year Ahead

Edison Community College's Athletic Department administered a Student-Athlete Day on July 28 at the Piqua campus to kick-off the upcoming volleyball, basketball and baseball seasons. Student-athletes, coaches, and staff were present to complete paperwork, have photos taken, and participate in initial team meetings. 

Student-Athlete Day is new to Edison as are many other changes that have occurred over the course of the year. Last year, Mr. Nate Cole was hired as the new Athletic Director; the women's basketball and volleyball teams gained new coaching staff; and the baseball program advanced from club level to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and will have a completely renovated field ready in time for the spring season.

"Many positive changes have been happening," said Nate Cole. "We're really excited about the direction that Edison's athletic program is heading and can't wait to see what the year ahead brings."

With such positive changes comes a greater interest to play from local athletes. "A total of 80 student-athletes have committed to play with Edison so far this year," added Cole. "When working with the coaching staff, I placed an emphasis on recruiting heavily from the local talent pool. I knew it wouldn't be hard for them to do because there are so many talented athletes in the area."

Kicking off the year in athletics, the volleyball team will play their season opener against Miami University-Hamilton at the Piqua Campus on Saturday, August 22 at 1 p.m.

Leading the volleyball team in the upcoming season are Head Coach Shelby Shimp and Assistant Coach Julia Haupricht. Shimp is a returning star volleyball player turned coach while Haupricht brings international level playing experience to the program.

With many new faces joining the team, the lady Chargers are prepared to take their talents to the court. Joining the team are Jessica Apple, Kenzie Atkinson, Taylor Bachman, Molly Dunlevy, Rebecca Hickman, Kerri Meade, Mikaela Oyer, Kortney Phipps, Tasha Potts, Taylor Stover, Allison Watkins, Brianna Wells-Barnes, and Hannah Wumer. Returning to the team is Rachel Foreman.

Edison's baseball, basketball and volleyball teams compete in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference and are Division II members of the National Junior College Athletic Association.