Despite winning the Mid-American Conference regular season title last season, Ohio was knocked out of the MAC Tournament one match short of the championship.
This year the Bobcats want to come out strong and set the pace early on, after being ousted earlier than desired in the post season last year.
Junior outside hitter Kelly Lamberti—the 2012 MAC Player of the Year—thinks that her squad is prepared for the physicality that it will face this season.
“I think we are definitely prepared for the season,” Lamberti said. “I think our team is extremely athletic and physical this year.”
Ohio has five freshmen on its roster, including Milwaukee, Wisc., native Geneva Yee, a defensive specialist who earned all-state libero honors twice during her high school career.
Alexis Pinson, a graduate student, is also new to the team and will play as a middle blocker, after previously playing at Arizona State.
Although there are many new faces, of the nine players that played at least 100 sets last season, four are no longer with the Bobcats, as Faith Robins and Lexie Harnett graduated, and Carley Jones and Serena Warner transferred.
However, coach Ryan Theis thinks that the new additions are jelling well.
“They (new girls) seem to be doing great,” Theis said. “They all get along really well, they have great personalities, and they’re fun to have around.”
With six new faces on the roster, leadership will be key to winning matches this season. Junior outside hitter Chelsea Bilger believes that the fun attitude the team brings to the court will help them mesh as a team.
“I feel like I am one of the loudest, most outspoken players on the team, so I really try to be a source of energy for the other girls,” Bilger said. “I also try to keep things light and fun when playing because I’ve noticed that most of the girls play better when we’re playing in a relaxed environment and joking around with each other.”
Sophomore setter Abby Gilleland has been quoted as being the biggest leader on the team, according to her teammates, after having just one year of experience under her belt.
“Abby has really stepped up as a leader on our team,” Bilger said. “Since she is the setter, it was crucial for her to feel comfortable enough to step up and take the leadership role. After playing with her during the past year, it’s been obvious that she is a natural leader and competitor on the court.”
The Bobcats were talented last year, and this year they believe that they can be better. Lamberti says that fans should expect constant competition and athleticism.
“Fans should expect a very talented and competitive team ready to win every game,” Lamberti said.
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