Lady Chargers Prepare for Season Ahead

The Edison State Community College volleyball team will play its first home game of the season on Wednesday, September 7 against Hocking College at 6 p.m. 

The Lady Chargers recently gained their first road match victory of the season against the University of Cincinnati-Clermont, defeating the Cougars in three straight sets. The team will travel to Perrysburg, Ohio, this weekend to compete in the Owens Invitational.

After a tough 2015 season, the team has been working hard in preparation for a rebound, but they face some stiff competition at home and on the road.

"My primary focus for this season will be to improve our level of play from last season. With that, I would like to have a strong defense and offense that keeps the competition on their toes," said Shelby Pitsenbarger, head volleyball coach at Edison State.

"I think we are already in a much better position this year because of the opportunity to recruit some high-caliber players. We will take one match at a time and work hard during practice to improve and take care of our side of the court."

The Lady Chargers return to the court with a solid mix of players, consisting of three returning sophomores and six incoming freshmen.

"Over the summer, the team has been interacting and playing together in open gyms and have gelled nicely with each other," said Pitsenbarger. 

"My expectations for the season will be for my returners to step into leadership roles," said Pitsenbarger. "With a year of experience under their belts, I have the utmost confidence in these ladies to take the freshmen under their wings and lead the team to a successful season. As for the freshmen, I expect them to come in ready to go."

Next up for the team will be a road game match versus Heidelberg University on Saturday, September 10. The Chargers will return to play their first home conference game of the season against Columbus State Community College on Friday, September 23 at 6 p.m.

Edison State's volleyball team competes in the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) and as Division II members of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA).

Head Coach Shelby Pitsenbarger gives pointers to Samantha Vehorn during a passing drill.