Lady Charger Volleyball Set to Begin

After seeing improvement in the 2016 season, the Edison State Community College volleyball team has continued to work hard in the off-season to prepare for the year ahead. While the Lady Chargers will continue to face stiff competition at home and on the road, head coach Julia Haupricht sees a lot of potential in the team. 

"I have extremely high expectations for this season," said Haupricht. "The girls have been working hard at practice, and I think that will show come game time. This group of young women has a lot of great volleyball experience to bring to Edison State's program." 

The Lady Chargers return to the court with a solid mix of players, consisting of four sophomores and five new student-athletes. 

"The incoming freshmen class is an outstanding group of athletes," said Haupricht. "Miranda Hickey, Vanessa Winner, and Reagan Morrett all won a state championship last year at their high schools. Noel Ufferman is also an incoming freshman whose work ethic is outstanding, and she is very coachable. Camille Odle was a last minute commitment to the team, but she is going to be a huge asset this year with her passing skills." 

"As for returners, Kasey Helmstetter, Erin Metz, and Denise Schwieterman, they have been great leaders, and I expect big things from all three of them this year," added Haupricht. "They have continued to work hard in the off-season to prepare for this season." 

"Ragan Williams is a transfer student with one year of college volleyball under her belt so that playing experience is a huge plus." 

Joining coach Haupricht in the upcoming season is Markia Harris, a former Edison State Charger, as the assistant coach. 

"I am extremely happy to have Markia as an assistant coach; she works great with the girls and brings a lot of volleyball knowledge to the program." 

"I do believe having a former player as a coach will benefit the program," said Haupricht. "She is already familiar with Edison State and everything the program has to offer, which is huge when it comes to recruiting. We are lucky to have her as a part of the volleyball program." 

The Lady Chargers will travel to the University of Cincinnati Clermont for their first matchup of the season on Wednesday, August 23. Their first home game will be played Monday, August 28 against Clark State Community College. 

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).