Prep Volleyball - Top Performers: Miami - Dade

This last week was filled with special performances in key games for many teams as the top teams start to see just how they shape up against their yearly rivals and are finding out that new teams are making their mark on the South Florida Volleyball scene.

Unfortunately we are unable to see all the games and rely mostly on the coaches, newspapers and parents. We know that there are many deserving players that are instrumental to their teams success.

Below are Top Performances from September 20th-26th, 2009 in South Florida:

MIAMI DADE COUNTY







Paulina Prieto of Palmer Trinity had 18 kills, 9 aces, 3 blocks and Sara Alfonso aired out 53 assists and 3 kills in 3 set defeat over Ransom.





Natasha Naveda of Mater Academy led the Lions with 30 assists and four aces in d. over Norland.

Julie Trembley of Westminster Christian had 19 kills and five digs and Rebecca Acevedo had 35 assists, nine kills and six aces in 5 sets vs. Westminster Academy.

Jasmine Wilkins of Hialeah led the Thoroughbreds with 19 kills and eight blocks in d. of Coral Gables.

Sarah Alfonso of Palmer Trinity led with six aces and 38 assists in d. of Westwood Christian.

Meghan Doyle of Florida Christian had 18 kills, 10 digs and six points in d. over Gulliver.

Barbara Cadet of Varela had 15 kills, 20 digs and Jasmine Pierre added 15 kills in d. of Palmetto in five hard fought matches.

Christine Marino of Hialeah-Miami Lakes had 16 kills and 8 digs in a three set defeat of North Miami.

Daniela Aguilera of Gulliver Prep. had 15 kills and five aces in d over Lourdes Academy.

Kristin Walewski of Ferguson had 35 assists and Alexandra Beverly had 17 kills and 3 blocks in three set d. over Braddock.

Coaches and Parents: Send us stats and Pictures on Players from SOUTH FLORIDA!
Write down our e-mail address: volleyballreport@gmail.com

Prep Volleyball - Top Performers: Broward

This last week was filled with special performances in key games for many teams as the top teams start to see just how they shape up against their yearly rivals and are finding out that new teams are making their mark on the South Florida Volleyball scene.

Unfortunately we are unable to see all the games and rely mostly on the coaches, newspapers and parents. We know that there are many deserving players that are instrumental to their teams success.

Below are Top Performances from September 20th-26th, 2009 in South Florida:

Broward County

Caiti Donohoe of Cardinal Gibbons had one kill, 33 assists, six digs and three service points. Jessica Wynn had two blocks, 14 kills, seven digs and two service vs. Lake Highland Prep. Cardinal Gibbons won the silver bracket championship of the East Coast Challenge.

Sara Faxner of Nova led with 16 kills, 13 digs, nine points and three blocks. Kathy Thompsom had 13 kills, 10 assists and seven points in d. of Plantation in three sets.

Tashalyn Begon of Archbishop McCarthy had 12 kills, 9 service points, 4 digs and 3 blocks in d. of Cypress Bay in three sets.

Ashlyn Boll of South Plantation had 16 kills, 16 service and 12 digs in a complete effort vs. South Broward.

Lauren Lewkowicz of Coral Springs had 17 digs, 16 kills, 2 service points in d. of Taravella.

Emily Navarrete of West Broward had 27 digs, 15 service points in d. over CS Charter.

Ashlyn Boll of S. Plantation had 18 service points, 16 kills and 12 digs in a complete effort vs. Hollywood Hills.

Katie Hillman of Cardinal Gibbons had 12 kills, 8 service points, 3 aces, 3 blocks; Molly Macek 17 digs, 7 service points in d. of Pines Charter in three sets.

Victoria Basso of Olympic Heights had 15 kills, 6 digs 5 aces in d. of Ft. Lauderdale.

Deborah Gordon of Calvary Christian had 25 kills, 3 service points, 3 aces; Kaylee Groeneveld 18 kills, 3 service points in d. over Pine Crest.

Tatiana Berger of Pine Crest had 23 kills, 17 digs, 3 blocks; Taylor Bracco 28 assists, 7 service points, 5 aces vs. Calvary Christian.

Coaches and Parents: Send us stats and Pictures on Players from SOUTH FLORIDA!
Write down our e-mail address: volleyballreport@gmail.com

Prep Volleyball: Top Performers - Palm Beach

This last week was filled with special performances in key games for many teams as the top teams start to see just how they shape up against their yearly rivals and are finding out that new teams are making their mark on the South Florida Volleyball scene.

Unfortunately we are unable to see all the games and rely mostly on the coaches, newspapers and parents. We know that there are many deserving players that are instrumental to their teams success.

Below are Top Performances from September 20th-26th, 2009 in South Florida:

PALM BEACH:

Kelli Weis of Trinity Christian had 55 assists, 22 service points, 3 aces, 13 digs in d. of Suncoast in four (4) sets.

Sarah Shifflett of Park Vista had 20 digs, 7 service points, 2 aces in d. of Forest Hill in three sets.

Denise Robinson of Lake Worth had 17 digs, 11 service points, 5 kills; Fabiola Cosmeus slammed down 17 kills and 7 service points in d. Santaluces in four sets.

Kelli Weiss of Trinity Christian had 48 assists, 10 service points; Erica Asher 16 kills, 10 service points d. St. Andrews.

Latoya Harvin of Royal Palm Beach had 17 digs, 15 blocks, 5 kills; Shaina Abdell added 19 kills, 17 service points, 7 aces, 15 digs, 7 blocks in five set d. of PN Central.

Codi Mimun of Benjamin had 16 kills, 12 digs; Christine Casey added 15 kills, 5 blocks and Maren McRoberts aired out 46 assists in d. of St. Edwards in four sets.

Katelyn Mears of Lake Worth Christian had 32 digs, 12 service points, 4 aces and Meagan Milligan had 13 kills and 6 blocks in d. of Cardinal Newman in four sets.

Hannah Fountain of Cardinal Newman had 20 digs, 17 kills, 9 blocks and 3 service points vs. LWC.

Victoria Basso of Olympic Heights had 15 kills, 6 digs 5 aces in d. of Ft. Lauderdale in four sets.

Coaches and Parents: Send us stats and Pictures on Players from SOUTH FLORIDA!
Write down our e-mail address: volleyballreport@gmail.com

Great weekend to take the familty to see UM Volleyball as they open ACC action

The University of Miami volleyball team hosts a pair of Atlantic Coast Conference matches this weekend welcoming Virginia and Virginia Tech to the James L. Knight Sports Complex in Coral Gables, Fla. UM hosts Virginia on Friday, Sept. 25 at 7 p.m., while the Virginia Tech match is slated for Sept. 27 at 1:30 p.m.

Miami (7-4, 0-1 ACC) is looking to bounce back after dropping consecutive matches at the Seminole Tri-Match last weekend in Tallahassee, Fla. UM began the weekend with a 3-0 setback at the hands of No. 19 Florida State before falling in a heart-breaking 3-2 decision to Notre Dame a day later.

Both UM matches this weekend will impact the ACC race heavily, much as last year's critical road stretch for the `Canes.

Visit the UM website on our side bar for the complete story.

Other Local Universities:

All of our local Universities will be Traveling.

FIU Opens Sun Belt Conference Action with Games in Alabama at Troy and and South Alabama in Mobile.

FAU also kicks off it's SBC action in Alabama first in Mobile vs South Alabama then vs. Troy.

For Lynn University they will be traveling to Saint Leo then to Lakeland to play Florida Southern.

Barry University will be on an inverse schedule playing Florida Southern then saint Leo.

Nova Southeastern University has no Games this weekend.

NEW Addition: We've added a new link of Inspirational Quotes. Click on our logo on the side bar to get into our Micro Quote Section - Get Ready to be Inspired to be Great.



PLEASE CLICK HERE

Nova Southeastern University has record breaking night in Victory over Palm Beach Atlantic

The Nova Southeastern University volleyball team swept Palm Beach Atlantic in convincing fashion in non-conference action inside the Arena at the Don Taft University Center on Thursday evening. The win improves the Sharks record to 10-6 on the season while PBA falls to 4-7.

It was a record breaking night for the Sharks, as senior setter Valia Petrova (Sofia, Bulgaria) became the NSU Volleyball program's all-time assists leader with her 18th assist of the match. She bypassed Lindsey Metts (2000-2003), who previously held the record with 3,302 assists. Concluding the match with 41 assists, Petrova now stands at 3,330 for her career. In addition, junior libero Kathleen Yony (Miami, Fla.) became just the third NSU player to surpass the 1,000 dig plateau in NCAA play. Yony, who tallied an astonishing 11 digs in the opening set, finished the match with 1,009 career digs.

"We played as a team tonight," said NSU head coach Steve Wilcosky. "It was really fun to watch and it showed the potential we have when we are all playing for each other. It's good to know that we're progressing as a team and as a program. If we can maintain that it could be a good turning point for us this season."

Sophomore middle blocker Molly Sigerich (Downers Grove, Ill.) paced the Sharks offensively with 12 kills and a .647 attack percentage. As a team NSU hit .379, establishing a new season high. Sigerich was followed by junior outside hitter Lucia Cizmarova (Bratislava, Slovak Republic) with 11 kills, junior outside hitter Taylor Pohlman (Olathe, Kan.) with 10. Senior outside hitter Jenerra McGruder (Euless, Tex.) and freshman middle blocker Carly Perschnick (Dwight, Ill.) each had eight kills.

However, the night belonged to Petrova and Yony. Petrova finished the match with four kills, 41 assists and nine digs. Yony corralled a team high 22 digs and two assists.

The Sharks will play their next seven matches away from the friendly confines of the Don Taft University Center. The road trip begins with a match vs. Florida Tech in Melbourne, Fla. on Thu, Oct. 1st at 7 p.m.

PREP VOLLEYBALL SPOTLIGHT: TOP PERFORMERS SEPT 10TH - 19TH (Part 3 of 3) Miami - Dade

This last week was an incredible week, with so many memorable individual performances that we decided to breakdown our posts by county.

Unfortunately we are unable to see all the games and rely mostly on the coaches, newspapers and parents. We know that there are many deserving players that are instrumental to their teams success.

MIAMI - DADE

Paulina Prieto of Palmer Trinity had 14 kills, four blocks; Kristin Titley 13 kills, three aces and Sarah Alfonso 42 assists in d. of Ferguson.
Jesyca Shiffman of Krop who had 39 assists. Brittany Dubins added 18 kills and three aces in d. of then unbeaten Hialeah.

Andrea Garcia of Miami Christian led with 37 kills, seven aces and three blocks. Alex Marchese had 48 assists and six aces. Nicole Beckleheimer had 18 kills, four blocks and three aces in a complete d over Country Day.

Audra Nickles of Coral Gables had 15 kills, eight digs in d. over Miami.
Emily Elkin of Ransom had 11 kills, 11 digs and 11 points in d. of Archbishop Carroll.
Jasmine Wilkins of Hialeah had 19 kills, seven blocks, and four aces and Jennifer Marron had 23 assists in a d. of Miami.
Jasmine Wilkins led Hialeah with 15 kills and six blocks in d. of Coral Park.
Rebecca Acevedo led Westminster Christian with 64 assists, five blocks and four aces in 5 sets.
Brittany Dubins of Krop had 12 kills, 4 Aces and Jesyca Schiffman had 31 assists and five aces in d. of Hialeah-Miami Lakes. Later Jesyca Schiffman led Krop with 26 assists and four aces in d. of North Miami Beach.
Krystal Ramos of Goleman had 22 digs, and 3 aces. In d. of N. Miami Beach.
Diana Fuentes of Goleman led with 14 kills, nine digs, and four aces in d. over North Miami.
Valerie Mejia of Ferguson led with 12 kills and three aces. Kristin Walewski had 30 assists and three aces
Claudia Mena of Coral Park had 29 assists and 9 kills and Lydia Sanchez added 13 kills and 8 digs in defeat of Coral Gables
Sara Alfonso of Palmer Trinity had 36 assists. In d. of Madison.
Natalia Huaroto-Luque of South Miami had 23 digs, eight service points;
Crystal Luciano of Killian had 21 assists vs Homestead.
Barbra Cadet of Varela 15 kills and seven digs in d. of Coral Reef.
Adrianna Daliente of Regan had 13 kills, five blocks and two aces in d. of Braddock.
Lauren Moliver of Palmetto had 23 digs in d. of Coral Reef.
Kaylin Carr of Redland Christian led with 15 kills, 30 assists, three aces and one block in d. of Island Christian
Carolina Nuche of Lourdes led the Bobcats with 14 kills and 16 digs in d. of Regan.
Natasha Naveda of Mater Academy had 29 assists and four aces. Jenna Isaacs had 16 kills and 3 blocks in d. of Key West.
Alex Levitt of Ransom had 31 assists in d. over Gulliver.

Coaches and Parents: Send us stats and Pictures on Players in Broward County!
Write down our e-mail address: volleyballreport@gmail.com

PREP VOLLEYBALL SPOTLIGHT: TOP PERFORMERS SEPT 10TH - 19TH (Part 2 of 3) Palm Beach

This last week was an incredible week, with so many memorable individual performances that we decided to breakdown our posts by county.

Unfortunately we are unable to see all the games and rely mostly on the coaches, newspapers and parents. We know that there are many deserving players that are instrumental to their teams success.


PALM BEACH:

Kate Rawls of Wellington had 15 kills and three blocks as the Wolverines (3-0) swept the Saints (2-2). Abby Winsor added 36 digs and nine service points for Wellington, and Nikki Naccaratto dished out 43 assists in a complete victory.

Emily Viskovich of West Boca had 40 assists, 13 service points while Jessica Santaniello slammed down 29 kills and 7 digs.
Shaina Abdell of Royal Palm Beach had 14 kills, 18 digs and eight blocks outlast Palm Beach Gardens. Against Orlando-Boone Shaina Abdel had 19 kills.
Caroline Flinchum of Palm Beach Central had 15 kills and six blocks vs Santaluces.
Taylor Kennedy of St. Andrew's had 22 kills, nine digs and four aces and Elizabeth Boshart added 31 assists and six kills d. Pope John Paul II.
Day Codi Mimun of Benjamin had 27 kills and Maren McRoberts added 43 assists to lead the Buccaneers past Glades Day.
Ashley Burns of Summit Christian had 29 assists and six kills, while Amber Courtwright added 13 kills and nine service points in d. Plantation-American Heritage.
Monica Sowers of Boca Raton Christian had 22 service points and 28 assists, Sami Spidell added 14 service points and 14 kills for the Blazers.
Caroline Flinchum of Palm Beach Central had 11 kills, 9 blocks, 2 digs vs. Boca Raton.
Taylor Tendrich of Park Vista had 20 digs, 14 service points and three aces.
Victoria Tenrod of Dwyer had 34 assists, 17 service points, 8 aces; Caroline Uhl added 20 digs, 16 kills, 8 service points, 3 aces to d. Lake Worth .
Olivia Mesner of Spanish River had 17 blocks, 10 service points, 9 kills, 6 aces
Elizabeth Boshart of St. Andrew's had 12 kills and 12 assists in d. Clewiston.
Christine Casey of Benjamin had 13 kills and 5 blocks in d. Pope John Paul.
Kelli Weis of Trinity Christian had 30 assists and 7 service points in d Wellington.

Coaches and Parents: Send us stats and Pictures on Players in Broward County!
Write down our e-mail address: volleyballreport@gmail.com

PREP VOLLEYBALL SPOTLIGHT: TOP PERFORMERS SEPT 10TH - 19TH (Part 1 of 3) Broward

This last week was an incredible week, with so many memorable individual performances that we decided to breakdown our posts by county.

Unfortunately we are unable to see all the games and rely mostly on the coaches, newspapers and parents. We know that there are many deserving players that are instrumental to their teams success.

Below are Top Performances from September 10-19th, 2009 in South Florida:

BROWARD:

Jenna Keeler of Plantation had 19 kills, 19 digs, 6 service points, 2 aces, 3 blocks d. Flanagan / vs West Broward: Jenna Keeler had 17 digs, 16 kills, seven blocks and two service points. Later in the week vs. Monarch Jenna Keeler had another monster game posting 21 kills, 9 digs, 7 service points, 6 aces, 3 blocks. In a defeat of Boyd Anderson, Jenna Keeler had 17 service points, 12 aces, 16 kills, 5 digs.
Alyssa Robertson of Monarch had 20 kills, 10 service points, 7 digs, 3 aces in d. of Plantation.
Tamara Gamperl of Deerfield had 21 kills, 5 service points, 2 aces in d. of Coral Glades.
Taylor Ruiz of Coral Springs had 22 kills, 5 service points and Molly Ferch 33 assists and 9 service points in d. over Monarch.
Danielle Colson of Summit Christian had 38 digs, 20 kills, 8 service points, 2 blocks vs. American Heritage.
Leigh Andrew of Westminster had 15 kills and 17 digs d. Pine Crest .
Molly Macek of Cardinal Gibbons led with 16 digs, nine points, two acesd. Archbishop McCarthy
Jessica Wynn of Cardinal Gibbons had 16 kills d. Arhbishop McCarthy.
Amy Dorvick of Deerfield had 12 kills, 10 service points, 4 aces d. Cypress Bay
Lauren Spear of St. Thomas Aquinas had 29 assists, 17 service points and 7 aces in d. Hollywood Hills
Desiree Hardy of Plantation had 29 assists, 7 service points, 5 aces, 7 kills vs. Monarch.
Anne Langsenkamp of St. Thomas had 16 digs, 12 service points, 2 aces d. Cypress Bay.
Maddy Clawges of Deerfield had 32 assists, 10 service points, 5 aces, 5 kills; Amy Dorvick had 15 kills, 10 digs, 8 service points, 4 aces, 5 blocks in d. South Plantation.
Casey VanVorhis of Flanagan had 16 kills, 8 service points in d. of McArthur.
Taylor Miller of Hollywood Hills had 16 kills, 5 service points, 3 blocks in d. of Northeast.
Jessica Bruno of Cooper City had 13 blocks and 11 kills in d. of Everglades..
Victoria McPherson of North Broward Prep had 25 kills, 2 service points, 2 aces; Katelyn Hummel 38 assists, 10 service points in d of Coral Springs Charter .
Jamie Nicholson of Flanagan had 28 assists, 9 service points, 3 aces, 4 kills in d. of Fort Lauderdale.
Kelly Marble of St. Thomas Aquinas had 14 kills, 13 digs, 4 service points, 3 blocks, 2 aces.
Diandra Jackson of Boyd Anderson had 16 kills, 5 assists, 4 aces vs. Ely.

Coaches and Parents: Send us stats and Pictures on Players in Broward County!
Write down our e-mail address: volleyballreport@gmail.com

FIU's Yarimar Rosa Expected Back Sooner Rather Than Later

For the last week I have been hearing all sorts of rumors surrounding Yarimar Rosa's health and status for the balance of the year. Many have thought that her Seniors year was over. The expression on Yarimar Rosa’s face when she clutched her hand after the play said it all. The festive and spirited crowd at the U.S. Century Bank Arena held their collective breath and became silent as she was helped to the locker room by a trainer.

Initially, there were fears of a possible fracture but Coach Danijela Tomic confirmed that Rosa’s injury was a dislocated pinkie.

She will see a hand specialist, but Tomic is optimistic that her return may be sooner than originally anticipated, possibly within the next week or two.

“We think that she might be ready to play next weekend,” Tomic said. “It depends how her stitches heal but it’s her non-hitting hand, which is good. It’s just a matter of how her body heals.”

TALENTED TEAM: The team has continued to play extremely well with-out Yari, recently winning the Raddison Invitational in Orlando defeating Florida A & M. Giving Southern Miss it's second lost of the year and defeating and up and coming UCF team.


The hopeful return of a healthy Rosa together with an already talented team makes FIU a strong favorite to repeat as Sun Belt Champion and do go deeper into the NCAA Tournament than ever before.

Lynn University to take on two Nationally Ranked Teams - SEE IT LIVE - Webcast

BOCA RATON, Fla. - Lynn University's volleyball team hosts a pair of nationally ranked teams as it opens Sunshine State Conference play this weekend. The Fighting Knights take on No. 21 Eckerd on Friday before battling fifth-ranked Tampa on Saturday.

WATCH LIVE - Both matches are set for 7 p.m. starts and fans can follow the action live by CLICKING HERE. Then click on the game you want to see.

Receiving votes in the American Volleyball Coaches Association poll for the third straight week, the Blue and White (9-2) play in the friendly confines of the de Hoernle Center for the first time this year. Lynn is 16-6 at home the past two seasons.

Four Knights average at least a pair of kills per set, led by outside hitter Katie Bradley's 3.13 a frame. Fellow outside Kala Abdell chips in 2.74 kps while right side Chelsey Semprini adds 2.22 kps and middle blocker Haley Pratt is good for 2.08 kps.

Defensively, libero Lacy Redwine paces the back row with 5.11 digs per set, second best in the SSC. Bradley and Devon Woolard each add 2.69 dps.

Up front, the Knights tally nearly two blocks a set and are led by Pratt's 0.97 a frame. Sophie Gagnon is also solid at the net with 0.79 bps while Semprini is just behind at 0.78 bps.

Eckerd (6-3) comes to Boca at No. 21 in the AVCA poll, its highest ranking in program history. The Tritons are 0-3 against the Blue and White in the de Hoernle Center against head coach Lynze Roos and have not won a set in any of the three losses.

Lydee Benoit leads the EC attack with 3.52 kills per set and is one of four players averaging more than two kills a stanza. Defensively, Allegra Shaw posts a solid 1.14 blocks per set while Hallie Ward and Benoit are both good for at least three digs a frame.

Fifth-ranked Tampa (9-1) is undefeated all-time against the Knights but the last few wins have not come easy. Each of the last three Spartan victories came in five set affairs.

Tampa is led by the one-two punch of defending SSC Player of the Year Melissa Vanderhall (3.41 kps) and freshman Jessica Yingling (3.21 kps). Defensively, both Danielle Selkridge (1.06 bps) and Camille Hanks (1.03 bps) are threats at the net.

HOT OFF THE PRESSES: NEW WOMENS U.S PROFESIONAL LEAGUE TO START PLAY IN 2011

I am pleased to announce that a new indoor womens professional volleyball league will be starting play in 2011 with one of the teams based in Miami. This should be great news to the players and fans of the game of volleyball. This opens more opportunities for elite players to continue their playing carrers beyond colleges and universities.

Former NFL Player to start indoor professional volleyball league for women.

Former NFL defensive back, Vestee Jackson, a former player for the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins to start a professional indoor volleyball league for women. Games to begin in the Fall of 2011, with 6 teams in the following markets; Chicago, Miami, Atlanta, Tampa, Minneapolis and Orlando.

About the league:

The league is called the Women's National Volleyball League (WNVL). Teams will consist of 12 active game players. Each team will play 4 pre-season games and 10 regular season games, followed by the WNVL Playoffs and Championship.

I will release more information as it becomes available. Get ready to support your Miami team and the league.

Player Profile: BROOKE CALHOUN

Today we have the pleasure of profiling a top defensive specialist prospect from Tennessee. Through our interview process we discovered that on top of a strong skill set, she has a tenacious drive to succeed and always be the best player that she can be.

You will note that she has sparkling references from her coaches and team mates exemplifying the impression that she has made upon those individuals. Brooke has yet to hit her ceiling as a player and is always looking to improve her skills. She will be an asset to any team and a joy to coach. We hope you enjoy her profile.

SFVR: Why do you want to play Volleyball Collegiately?
CALHOUN: First and foremost I want to get an education. That is very important to me. Volleyball is a sport that I love and I enjoy playing, so why not keep playing while I get my college education! If college coaches feel that I have the ability to play at the next level then I want accept that challenge and give it 100%. However If something happens and I can’t play while I attend college then I would be looking for pick up games or teams at the YMCA to play for just because I love playing it. So no matter what happens I am going to keep playing. I would just like to challenge myself to compete at the college level.

SFVR: What Position do you think you would excell at the next level?
CALHOUN: Defensive Specialist and or Libero! That’s the part of the game I enjoy the most and I have focused my skills at. When I was younger I had a former college DS coach and teach me all the finer points about that position and from that time on I have loved playing defense. I LOVE making a good pass or hitting the floor to make a dig. I can play and have played setter in the past but without a doubt my future is as DS/ Libero.

SFVR: What are your expectations for your Junior year of High School?
CALHOUN:I want to HELP lead my team to the State tournament. My school has never played at the state level and we got so close my freshmen year by making it to sub-state. So my goal is to be a good caption and help lead us to state. Because we are a small school and we have a small team I have to play OH which is not my best position. But I will give it my best and do whatever I can to help us win.

SFVR: What are you looking to do to become a better player?
CALHOUN: I have plans to work out with a trainer three days a week once school ball ends and until club ball starts. My goal is to become faster and a little stronger. Our club just joined up with a former volleyball trainer from up north and I have meet with her about what all we can do to get myself better before my senior year. Also my club team has very high expectations for this coming season so I want to be in the best shape I can be for that as well. I would also like to find some camps that focus on Defense that I could attend and receive more coaching.

SFVR: Tell us about your love for the game and your desire to become a better player.
CALHOUN: I am extremely competitive and want to be the best player I can be. I love to practice and learn more about the game. I enjoy playing for coaches who take it very serious and want to teach you the right way to play. I also enjoy playing against the best teams as playing against the best makes you better. Volleyball was the sport that just clicked for me back when I was trying different sports, so I just fell in love with it. I could play everyday and it’s hard to find me without a ball close to me.

SFVR: What does the word Coachable mean to you?
CALHOUN: That you are a player who listens to their coach and does exactly what they ask you to do. A player who can take coaching and then put it to use out on the court.

Player Profile:

Brooke Calhoun 5' 6"
Grace Baptist Academy Junior, DS/Libero
Chatanooga TN. Coached by: Shana Ivarson
Year of Graduation: 2011

2008 Sophomore Stats: 346 Digs, 66 Kills.

Standing Reach:82.5”; Jump/Block Reach:101.5”; Approach Reach:107.5”

Coaches Comments:

Shana Ivarson, Head Coach Grace Baptist Academy: “Brooke is one of the most coachable players I have coached. She is self motivated, hardworking and very disciplined. She is versatile as a hitter, a setter, and a libero. Her strongest of the three is a defensive specialist. Brooke is quick and is great at reading the hitters. She is a player that every coach loves to have because of her work ethic and great attitude.“

Sarah Lail Head Coach 15-1 Cho Cho City Volleyball Club “Heart, drive, determination, and desire, are just a few words that come to mind when talking about Brooke Calhoun. Brooke’s dedication to continuous improvement along with her positive attitude has strengthened her game and made her into a defensive force. Brooke’s “nothing hits the floor on my side” attitude is something a coach and her teammates can count on when she is on the court. I have had the honor of coaching Brooke and I would highly recommend her as an addition to your program.

Coach Bryan Bramlett 16-1 team last year which won the Silver Bracket at the JVDA Nationals in Louisville, KY. can also be contacted via the Report.



Experience:
Surgoinsville Middle School, TN.
Kingsport Middle School Kingsport, TN.
Kingsport Volleyball Club, Kingsport, TN.
Loftis Middle School Hixson, TN.
Grace Baptist Academy Chattanooga TN.
Choo Choo City Volleyball Club Chattanooga, TN.

Awards:*2007 and 2008 won awards at the University of Tennessee Summer Camps.
*2008 Brooke's Sophomore year she was All District 5 Honorable Mention and then went on to win District 5 All Tournament Team.
*2009 High School Team Captain as a Junior.

Major to be studied: Psychology and or Pre-med
GPA in High School: 3.9
Hobbies / Activities: Class President, Yearbook editor, beta club
Jogs and exercises regularly.
Favorite Food: Steak, Cheese, Ice-cream
Favorite Band: 3oh!3
Favorite Vacation: Traveling to the beach or to an Amusement Park.



We Wish Brooke the very best and we know that the sky is the limit for this young lady.

VolleyBowl is a Great Success in Orlando, Fl.

The University of Central Florida and the University of South Florida, about an hours drive from one-another had the second Volley Bowl between the two schools. A record crowd of 1,600 fans witnessed the match between both schools, which makes me reflect how our sport continues to grow in and around the state of Florida.

The University of South Florida volleyball team swept the UCF Knights, 3-0, in front of more than 1,600 UCF fans Tuesday night at The Venue.

"I knew we had to stay focused with the environment we would be in," said head coach Claire Lessinger. "It was a good experience to go into someone else's gym and have that kind of crowd against us. Some of the highlights of the night was our sideout offense and sideout percentage."

Junior Allie Boaz led the Bulls (6-2) with 13 kills on a .750 attack percentage. Senior BIG EAST Preseason Player of the Year Marcela Gurgel recorded 13 kills in the match to total 1,511 for her career and become the fourth player in USF history to reach the 1,500-kill plateau.

These type of events are good for the sport of volleyball. They bring in new spectators and make new fans of the greatest female team sport in the world. I look forward to more match-ups between FIU and UM and more fans of both schools showing up and witnessing the great volleyball being played by our South Florida universities.

PREP VOLLEYBALL SPOTLIGHT: TOP PERFORMERS SEPT 1-9TH

The prep / high school season has begun and many players are looking like they are in mid season form which is a tribute to the coaches and the players hard work and preparation. Furthermore, it is evidence of the many atheletes that now play the sport of Volleyball year round in South Florida (School Sept.-Nov.; Club Dec-June; Beach June-Dec.).

Unfortunately we are unable to see all the games and rely mostly on the coaches, newspapers and parents. We know that there are many deserving players that are instrumental to their teams success.

Below are Top Performances from September 1-9th, 2009 in South Florida:

Palm Beach County:

Latoya Harvin of Royal Palm Beach vs. Summit Cristian: 16 Digs, 11 Kills, 10 Service Points, and 8 Blocks.
Amber Courtright of Summit Cristian vs. Cardinal Newman: 15 Kills, 15 Digs and 16 Service Points.
Shaina Abdell of Royal Palm Beach vs. Summit Christian: 13 Digs, 12 Kills and 7 Blocks.
Brie Roulette of Park Vista vs. Trinity Christian: 36 Assists and 15 Service Points.
Ashley Burns of Summit Christian vs. Cardinal Newman: 33 Assists and 18 Digs.
Caiti Donahoe of Cardinal Gibbons vs. Olympic Heights: 28 Assists, 5 Aces & 3 Blocks.
Keelin Severtson of Cardinal Newman vs. Kings Academy: 30 Digs, 24 Service Points and 15 Assists.
Taylor Kennedy of St. Andrew's vs. Cardinal Newman: 16 kills, 14 digs and seven aces

Broward County:

Jenna Keeler of Plantation vs. Taravella: 16 Kills, 8 Blocks, 8 Service Points (3A).
Peyton Schlosser of Pompano: 16 kills, 7 Service Points & 3 Digs.
Alexis Arenal of Pompano: 37 Assists, 14 Service Points & 3 Digs.
Kelly Marble of St Thomas Aquinas vs. Pompano Beach: 15 Kills, 8 Digs & 2 Blocks.
Leigh Andrews of Westminster Academy vs. Pine Crest: 17 Digs and 15 Kills

Dade County:

Jennifer Garcia of Braddock vs. South Miami: 17 Kills and 10 Digs.
Nancy Lacayo of Braddock vs. South Miami: 34 Assists and 20 Service Points.
Rianna Pulido of Archbishop Carrol vs. Carrollton: 12 Blocks.
Ashley Gutierrez of Mater Academy vs. Westland: 15 Kills and 3 Blocks.
Natasha Naveda of Mater Academy vs. Westland: 35 Assists and 3 Kills
Danielle Pohl of Ferguson vs. Braddock: 12 Kills and 3 blocks
Alexandra Walewski of Ferguson vs. Braddock: 11 Kills and 15 Digs
Kristin Walewski of Ferguson vs. Braddock: 30 Assists and 5 Digs.
Jovanna Santamaria of Sunset vs Lourdes: 33 Asists
Julie Helmcamp of Sunset vs. Lourdes: 17 Kills

Attention Coaches and Parents: Please e-mail us a players top performance stats and game action pictures.

FIU Falls to No. 22 Florida State

The FIU volleyball team fell to No. 22 Florida State, 3-1 (24-26, 25-21, 25-17, 25-12), on Saturday night at the U.S. Century Bank Arena as part of the FIU/UM Invitational. The Panthers fall to 7-2 with the loss, while the Seminoles improve to 7-1 on the season.
The Panthers came out on fire in the first set, jumping out to a 13-8 advantage but Florida State battled back to come within three at 21-18. The squads traded points to put the score at 22-19 before the Seminoles tallied four straight points to take a 23-22 lead.

Following an FIU timeout, senior Olga Vergun knotted the score at 23-23 with a kill from junior Natalia Valentin. The squads then traded points before two kills by sophomore Andrea Lakovic closed out the set, as the Panthers took the 26-24 win.

Both teams hit over .350 for the set, as FIU recorded a mark of .382 on 18 kills and Florida State tallied an attack percentage of .375 on 16 kills.

"We started a little slow but made a few adjustments after we lost the first game, Poole said. "Our block and quick attack then took over."

The second set saw the Seminoles take an early lead and the Panthers were unable to catch up despite a tremendous effort. FIU put together a run to come within four at 21-17, but Florida State tacked on two straight points to increase its lead to 23-17. The Panthers put up a fight and got within three at 24-21 before a Seminole kill gave FSU a 25-21 win.

For The full Story Visit FIU link on our side bar or Click Here.

Below are more great pictures from Flip Littke - Action Photographer.

Westminster Tops Palmer Trinity in Heated 5-Set Match

A typical Miami heat wave in September has brought unrelenting temperatures this past week throughout the region. It was also very heated one evening at the Westminster Christian Academy volleyball courts, where the Lady Warriors hosted the Lady Falcons of Palmer Trinity School in the first game of the 2009 fall volleyball season.

The clash of these two teams can be said to be a true classic battle between the undisputed two best teams in the district, and that evening proved to be an indicator of how tight the battle for first place will be, with a very long and intense game in which Westminster ended up victorious in five sets, each with both teams making over 20 points in each set. The final set ended 15-11, where the teams never let up until the end. The heat inside was palpable to the point of a nuclear meltdown. Final Score Westminster d. Palmer Trinity: 25-17,22-25,25-22,20-25,15-11. Rebecca Acevedo led Westminster Christian with 64 assists, five blocks and four aces.


With these two teams, one can never know how it will end, even when it seems that one of the two was a sure winner of the game. But it was a see-saw of points, both displaying power spikes, prowess in the defense, and some wickedly awesome plays that amazed everyone over and over again. The lead went back and forth again and again. Each gained the momentum, only to give the lead up with an awesome play by the other team.

Even though I watched as a parent for one of the Palmer players, I could not help but to admire how well both teams played, even with the rookies that went in for their first varsity game. It is clear that both teams have been well trained and are thoroughly disciplined in their game ethics. I only wish that the officiating would have matched this level.


I will not sour the story by saying that one team lost, or the other won, because of the officiating blunders (some that were ridiculously hilarious, if not for the seriousness of the mistakes that clearly affected the tempo of the game, and which both teams were clearly affected), since I am one hundred percent in agreement that the game was decided by the players, regardless of how the officials in this game clearly displayed that they were rookies refereeing the most intense game of the season. So I will not focus in any way in that aspect, but to look at what has developed in a Classic, just like the old Army-Navy and Harvard-Yale games. In Miami we have The Palmer Trinity-Westminster Christian Classic. The officiating did not match the level of play at all, and I only hope that the people who schedule the officials for the games will not make this mistake again. We need good refs for this match up. Period.


All in all, the intensity of this game was such that every one was up on their feet almost the entire game. Detaching myself from the emotional side of being a spectator, I could almost compare this as a great sports movie. At the end, one team had to come out the victor, and I congratulate Westminster Christian for their victory, and cannot wait until their next game at the Falcon’s nest at Palmer Trinity. This type of game intensity is reflective of the type of game needed to be a powerhouse in South Florida. We are headed in the right direction.

If you want to see the very best of High School volleyball in Miami, head to the next Classic Match up at Palmer Trinity vs Westminster in October __, 2009, 7:00 PM.

Special Thanks to Flip Littke for his insight and sharing with us what is a very special match-up between two very dominant teams. We look forward to other parents taking the time and sharing with the South Florida Volleyball Community.

FIU/UM Invitational Tournament

Last nights match-up between FIU and UM kicks off a weekend of top notch volleyball in South Florida. All of the teams that are participating in this tournament were either in the NCAA Tournament last year or are highly touted to be in the tournament this year.

FIU will be playing host to Albany at 7:00PM tonight at the U.S. Century Bank Arena. Albany was in last years Tournament.

On Saturday, There will be a great Double Header with Middle Tennessee (MTSU) vs. Florida State at U.S. Century Bank Arena at 12:00 p.m. Followed by FIU vs Florida State @ 7:00PM.

Remember to visit the FIU web site by clicking on our side bar.

UM will be hosting MTSU at 6:00PM tonight at 6:00PM at the Knight center in Coral Gables.

On Saturday UM will host Albany at 6:00PM at the Knight center in Coral Gables.

Remember to visit UM's web site by clicking on our side bar.

This weekend will be yet another great weekend of Volleyball in South Florida.

See Ya There!

FIU Slams UM into Submision 3-0

We arrived early to the anticipated match between FIU and UM. Some in our group were going to root for UM and other for FIU. I had no idea who would win but was sure that the match would go to 4 sets and I would not have been surprised to see the match go to 5 sets. I never imagined that FIU would beat UM in 3 sets, but that's what happened.

An estimated attendance of 1,200 fans most of which were pro FIU were to be heard from quite often through-out the night as FIU defeated UM 3-0 (26-24, 26-24, 25-17), on Thursday evening at U.S. Century Bank Arena in Miami, Fla. on FIU's Coach Tomics' Birthday.

Where were the UM students? It's just a 20 min drive to the FIU Arena. How would UM have played with support.

As the match started, UM raced to a convincing 9-3 lead behind an early strong performance from Ali Becker and Genny Mayhew. In the early run, FIU (6-1) committed four errors to help the Hurricanes cause. The Golden Panthers kicked off a 10-4 run with a kill from Andrea Lakovic to eventually knot the score, 13-13.

The tie was the first of 20 ties and six lead changes in the match. This set had everyone on the edge of their seats. Finally FIU inched out the victory 25-24.

The second set was mostly controlled by FIU but for a late rally from UM to make things interesting. In the end FIU was victorious again 26-24.

After intermission, I was sure that UM would come out breathing fire and will them selves to a victory. To my surprise FIU started slamming in point after point kill after kill. After a while UM started pressing trying to make things happen but this night FIU was too strong winning the last set 25-17.


FIU unveiled it's Sun Belt Conference Championship, it's 28-7 record and it's second ever participation in the NCAA tournamet for 2008.

On such a historical night, the first EVER match between both programs; it was terrible to see the injuries to two of our beloved players. First was the injury to Yarimar Rosa, which seemed to be a fracture to a finger. She seemed to be in terrible pain and agony as she walked to the locker room. Shortly thereafter UM's star setter Katie Gallagher landed poorly on her right leg and had to be helped off the court. The extent of both players exact injuries is not certain, but booth seemed to be in pain as they left to the locker rooms.

It's strange because I hardly see any injuries in Volleyball and on such a special night to see two of my favorite players get hurt took away from such a special night.

Miami (5-2) was held to a season-low 43 points and the second-lowest production of kills (34) on Thursday evening. In the process, the Hurricanes were unable to place a player in double-figures in the kills category for just the second time all season.

FIU was led by Rosa's 17 kills and 11 digs, while teammates Vergun (13) and Sabrina Gonzalez (10) both added double figures for kills. Libero Chanel Araujo collected a match-high 18 digs.

As for Miami, the `Canes were paced by Mayhew's eight kills and six digs. Behind her were Carico and McGee, each collecting seven kills. McGee added a team-best four blocks, while setter Katie Gallagher put up 27 assists, seven digs and three blocks (assisted).

Both teams continue action tmrw as FIU hosts Albany on Friday @ 7:00PM and Miami hosts Middle Tennessee State at 6 p.m. to the James L. Knight Sports Complex on the campus of UM in Coral Gables.

See Ya There!

Local Favorites FIU & UM go head to head this Thursday the 10th

Stand up and make some noise for your ___________. Will you fill in the blank with the FIU team or the UM team. For many of us; we enjoy the play of both team and their talented players. You have probably been craving a cross town match up for quite some time. Now that you have it, who will you root for?

The match will be held at the U.S. Century Bank Arena, September 10th @ 7:00PM. Both FIU and UM come in to the match with Identical 5-1 records as both teams are on the rise nationally with FIU expected to repeat as Sun Belt Conference Champion and UM is expected to seriously contend for the ACC crown.


Thus far FIU has compiled an impresive record without the services of Yarimar Rosa, who has a strain and has had a taxing ofseason representing Puerto Rico in International play. The most impressive win has been against highly touted Kansas in Lawrence.

Yarimar is expected to play during this match. She will be joined by Natalia Valentin, Isadora Rangel and Olga Vergun that missed last season. Look for strong participation from local players: Angelina Colon - Palmer Trinity; Sabrina Gonzalez - Sunset and Stephanie Rodriguez - Florida Christian.


The University of Miami Volleyball team has compiled an impressive start to the season also winning The Hampton Inn and Suites Tournament in Northern Colorado. UM is lead by a young group of top performers that should have the program ridding high for some time. Keep and eye on Lane Carico, Jenny Mayhew, Katie Gallagher, Cassie Loessberg and Lici McGee.

If you are a fan of either or both programs this is a must watch. Seeing that I have a UM shirt I'll probably have to buy an FIU hat, sit back and enjoy what should be a memorable and enjoyable match. I plan on cheering every great play on either side.

See ya there!

High School Volleyball Preview: MIAMI-DADE COUNTY

A Consistent theme throughout these previews has been the continued improvement of players and teams within South Florida. Miami-Dade boast two legitimate contenders to a State Title and many talented teams that are capable of making strong pushes into the post season.

In 6A Ferguson has a deep and talented senior team lead by Coach Greg Shanower. The team returns a group off ALL-County players that are focused on one goal: Winning the State Championship. Coach Shanower is sure to keep them focused because several Dade county teams have the same goal in mind.

Ferguson's core is lead by Sr. Kristin Walewski S, who has a group of talented hitters to feed: Sr. Mackenzie Webster OH; Sr. Alexandra Beverly MB; Sr. Alexandra Walewski OH and Sr. Danielle Pohl MB.


In 2A Palmer Trinity has a team that could compete with many DIV II Universities. This team is lead by Paulina Prieto, all state first team and the Miami Herald player of the year. Just a sophomore, Paulina 6'2" moves and plays like a savvy veteran. She is joined by talented Seniors Kristen Titley and Sarah Alfonso as well as a strong bench. The team is well coached under the guidance of William Gonzalez. A new player to keep an eye on as the season progresses is setter Dani Littke.

Below is a class by class preview of the top Miami-Dade teams as the begin their quest for a championship:

Class 6A

Ferguson
Coached by Greg Shanower
Top Players: Kristin Walewski, Sr.; Alexandra Walewski, Sr.; Mackenzie Webster, Sr.; Danielle Pohl, Sr.; Alexandra Beverly Sr.
Comment: Talented and well coached team that is poised to contend for a state title.

KROP
Coached by Caron Schiffman
Top Players: Jesyca Schiffman, Sr.; Brittany Dubins, Sr.; Dylan Yarchin, So.; Brittany Torano, So
Comment: Top team from their district. Time will tell if they have enough to go deep into the state playoffs.

Palmetto
Coached by Kim Latshaw
Top Players:Lindsay Lewis, Sr.; Carrie Comendeiro, Sr.; Kristen Chao, So.; Brittany Batten, Jr.
Comment: Last years 6A representative in Lakeland. Although the team lost many talented seniors they should compete again.

Southwest
Coached by Iris Carpio
Top Players: Hannah Penna, Sr.; Shannon Ferguson, Sr.; Diana Denis, Sr.; Michelle Taylor, Sr.
Comment: Team is loaded and should make a strong push towards a deep playoff run.

Killian
Coached by Clinton Reid
Top Players: Jennifer Machado, Sr.; Diani Barut, Sr.; Alycia LeNoble, Sr.; Airam Trillo, So.
Comment: Rich winning tradition will continue in 2009.

Lourdes
Coached by Greg Villareal
Top Players: Carolina Nuche, Sr.; Sophia Del Campo, So.; Lauren Silva, Sr.; Katherine Zamora, Jr.
Comment: Talented team, should be a force once again in 2009.

Hialeah
Coached by Rosa Garcia
Top Players: Jasmin Wilkins Sr.; Michelle Diaz Jr.; Jenny Marron So.
Comment: Even with the transfer loss of a top player this team looks to compete deep into the playoffs in 2009.

Varela
Coached by Caryn Cortright
Top Players: Barbara Cadet, Sr.; Jarelys Archilla, Sr.; Kiki Carrington, Jr.; Mary Medina, Jr.
Comment: Coach and team veterans will make sure team competes into playoffs.

Coral Reef
Coached by Yazmin Ortiz
Top Players: Daniel Ferris, Jr.; Raquel Laing, Jr.; Stacy Rubio, So.; Sarah Jeffers, Sr.
Comment: Team is building a strong foundation. Will compete strongly in 2009 but future looks bright for this program.

Sunset
Coached by Charly Ball Lovera
Top Players: Denise Diaz, Sr.; Julie Helmcamp, Sr.; Jovanna Santa Maria, Jr.; Giselle Gonzalez, So.
Comment: Could be this years Cinderella team. Keep an eye on setter Jovanna Santa Maria.

Class 4A

Mater Academy
Coached by Zeida Davila
Top Players: Jenna Isaacs, Sr.; Alexis Gandon, Sr.; Maria Madrid, Sr.; Kyrstle Garcia, So.
Comment: What was a very talented team that went deep into the playoffs last year added Hialeah transfer Maria Madrid.

Class 3A

Ransom Everglades
Coached by Roger Peluso
Top Players: Kathryn Trinka, Fr.; Viki Collazo, Jr.; Michi Court-Reuss, Jr.; EmilyElkin, Jr.
Comment: Young team should be a top contender.

Archbishop Carroll
Coached by David Zapatta
Top Players: Serina Diaz, Jr.; Krystelle Vieux, Jr.; Shawna Fathauer, Jr.; Karla Aguayo, Jr.
Comment: Well coached veteran team will push strongly for the spot vacated by Florida Christian.

La Salle
Coached by Odete Partridge
Top Players: Jaqueline Jawitz, Sr.; Lauren Behar, Sr.; Alex Vazquez, Jr.; Tabitha Baca, Jr.
Comment: Talented team looks to make it's mark on the 2009 season.

St. Brendan
Coached by Vicky Chacon
Top Players: Ivianna Sequeiros, Sr.; Noelani Soto, Sr.; Ana Del Rio, Sr.; Katrina Mena, Sr.
Comment: Team looking to improve upon last year and compete into the playoffs.

Class 2A

Palmer Trinity
Coached by William Gonzalez
Top Players: Paulina Prieto, So.; Kristen Titley, Sr.; Sarah Alfonso, Sr.; Cecilia Leal, Sr.
Comment: Talented well coached team is looking to contend for a state title in 2009.

Westminster Christian
Coached by Julie Doan
Top Players: Deanna Etzold, Sr.; Julie Trembley, Jr.; Rebecca Acevedo, Jr.; Meghan Kenney, Sr.
Comment: Talented team looks to go deep into the playoffs. Matches between Palmer and Westminster are epic showdowns.

Florida Christian
Coached by Beth King
Top Players: Meghan Doyle, Sr.; Lorena Alfonso, Sr.; Katrina Alvarez, Sr.; Keilyn Gonzalez, Jr.
Comment: Class 3A powerhouse must now contend with the top teams of 2A.

Class 1A

Princeton Christian
Coached by Janet Kinney
Top Players: Clayon Wilson, Sr.; Monique Rivers, Fr.; Ariam Rios, Jr.; Kristine Rios, Fr.
Comment: Athletic, talented team looking to go deep into the playoffs this year.

Miami Christian
Coached by Mary Odio
Top Players: Andrea Garcia, Jr.; Nicole Neckelheimer, Jr.; Daniela Garcia, Jr.; Alexandra Rios, Jr.
Comment: Veteran team looking to make its mark upon the 2009 season.

Redlands Christian
Coached by Rhonda Carr
Comment: Should once agin be a top contender from class 1A

It's great to see the level of volleyball in South Florida on the rise. We have always had great players but now we are developing through great coaching and year round play GREAT TEAMS!

Coaches and Parents: Feel free to send pictures and a few sentences about your favorite South Florida high-school players or teams.

High School Volleyball Preview: BROWARD COUNTY

The Broward County Athletic association boasts the second largest high school athletic Conference in the state. With that being said, only two teams represented the county in last years state tournament in Lakeland. So the quest to for the Championship begins again.

This year as the level of elite volleyball play continues to grow in South Florida Broward has several teams in each class that have their eye on the Florida State Championship Title. One Such team is St. Thomas Aquinas who has simply reloaded with a talented core of players and a key transfer.


Lead by Coach Lisa Zielinski - St Thomas returns a taleted core of players that competed last winter in several National Travel Clubs: Sr. Kelly Marble OH; Sr. Dee Dee Dennis; Sr. Anne Langsenkamp, LIB and Jr. Lauren Spear S. As if this talented core of players were not enough Cardinal Gibbons transfer Jr. Crystal Dedes MH was added to the this talented team.

Below is a class by class preview of Browards top teams as they start their quest for a state championship:

Class 6A

Douglas
Coached by Dean and Marci Barboza
Top Players: Jr. Victoria Ashley, MH; Fr. Kirsten Kuhl, OH; Sr. Kendall Putnam, OH; So. Brittany Sauls, OH; Fr. Lauren Strode, LIB; Jr. Aline Valiengo, S.
Comment: Talented team with a rich winning tradition will compete for a title once again in 2009.

Coral Springs
Coached by Shane Marcy
Top Players: Jr. Molly Ferch; Jr. Jamie Klein; Jr. Lauren Lewkowicz, OH; Jr. Kathy Rivas; Sr. Taylor Ruiz, OH.
Comment: Team has all the tangeables to go far into the playoffs this year.

Cypress Bay
Coached by Mililani Quinsaat-Suzuki.
Top Players: Young team will compete well this year but the future will shine brightest on this team.

Flanagan
Coached by John O'Bryan
Top Players: Sr. Jessie Behar, MH; Jr. Jamie Nicholson, S; Sr. Kasey VanVorhis, OH.
Comment: Talented core of players should take team far. If the younger players kick in - look out.

South Platation
Coached by Luis Pico
Top Players: Jr. Ashlyn Boll, OH; Sr. Keara Horton, MH.
Comment: Younger Players must step up for this team to contend again in 2009.

West Broward
Coached by Jill Smithermen
Top Players:Jr. Jessica Barnes, MH; Jr. Taylor Bonito, S; Sr. Katherine Maher, S; Sr. Emily Navarette, LIB; Jr. Jaclyn Pickett, OH.
Comment: Well coached, this could be this years Cinderella team that comes out of no-where and challenges.

Holleywood Hils
Coached by Jenna Andrews
Top Players: Sr. Ashley James, OH; Sr. Taylor Miller, MH; Fr. Beth Shoaff, S; Sr. Amanda Wright, OH.
Comment: The Spartans have moved from Class 5A to 6A. They definately have the players and coaching to compete.

Plantation
Coached by Maria Espinoza
Top Players: Sr. Adrianna Garcia, OH; Sr. Desiree Hardy, S; Sr. Tierra Harold, OH; Sr. Jenna Kheeler, MH; So. Ann-lori Pierre, MH.
Comment: Tall athletic team looks to be a force this year.

Western
Coach: Nicci Miller
Top Players: Jr. Christina Battaglia, OH; So. Ashley Boulier, MH/OH/S; Jr. Morgan Dunn, OH; So. Ally Simons, LIB; So. Nicole Smith, LIB.
Comment: Young up and coming program could become quite the power house in the next few years.

Class 5A

St Thomas Aquinas
Coached by Lisa Zielinski
Top Players: Jr. Crystal Dedes, MH; Sr. Dee Dee Dennis; Sr. Anne Langsenkamp, LIB; Sr. Kelly Marble, OH; Jr. Lauren Spear, S.
Comment: A top contender to win a state championship in 2009.

Dillard
Coached by Donna Sacco
Top Players: Jr. Janine Alexander, S/OH; Sr. Sadie-Ann Bailey, MH; Sr. Darnella Faisbon, OH; Sr. Shanice Lewis, MH/OH.
Comment: Senior led team looks to make its mark for the quest for a state championship.

Ely
Coached by Gayle Kyle
Top Players: Sr. Juliana Demard, S; So. Alissa Garcia, S/OH; So. Melinda Mackey S; Sr. Krista Wade, S.
Comment: Talented team looks to improve on last year performance.

Nova
Coached by Lee Ann Nielson
Top Players: So. Christy Brinson, S; Jr. Sonaa Nagi, OH; Sr. Sara Saxner, OH; Jr. Cassie Thompson, S/OH; Jr. Kayla Upham, LIB.
Coment: Solid Team returns it's core to go far into the playoffs.

Class 4A

Archbishop McCarthy
Coached by Karen Frank
Top Players: So. Tashalyn Begon, MB; Jr. Ali Pablos, S; Jr. Sofia Sanchez, LIB; Sr. Casey Uritis, OH; Jr. Katie Uritis, OH; Sr. Maria Ines Zanotti, S.
Comment: Talented core returns to compete on the state level.

Cardinal Gibbons:
Coached by Kathryn Farland
Top Players: Sr. Courtney Buchanan, OH; So. Caiti Donahoe, S; So. Katie Hillman, MH; Sr. Molly Macek, LIB; Jr. Jessica Wynn, OH/RS.
Comment: Gibbons looks for a 19th State title under second year coach Kathlyn Farland.

Pines Charter
Coached by Jason Soutemire
Top Players: Sr. Daniella Escobar; Jr. StephanieLopez, OH.
Comment: Younger players must step up to help this team get beyond districts.

Hallandale
Coached by Adam Lawrence
Top Players: Jr. Evelyn Espinal S; Jr. Angelique Feeney, OH; Sr. Alia Johnson, UTL; Sr. Delcia Johnson, UTL.
Comment: Team is looking to make it's mark on the 2009 season.

Class 3A
Note: The top four teams in this class are very close to one-another which serves the winner well to compete for a state championship.

Chaminade
Coached by Jason Johnson
Top Players: So. Brianna O'Neil, MH; Sr. Chantal Franzosa, OH; Sr. Ashley Rey, OH; So. April Sicam, LIB.
Coment: Talented well coached team looks to claim the state title, but first must make it past regionals.

Pine Crest
Coached by Denise Silvester
Top Players: Sr. Tatiana Berger, OH; Sr. Taylor Bracco; Sr. Eleyna Garcia.
Comment: Senior led team has a sense of urgency to make it's mark on the record books.

Coral Springs Charter
Coached by Carla Nicholson
Top Players: Sr. Danielle Borrelli, OH/MH; 8th Morgan Haynes, LIB; Sr. Amanda Holden, OH; Sr. Sarah Mattaliano, S.
Comment: Returns a talented core of players that have their eyes on the title.

North Broward Prep
Coached by Terri Jimenez
Top Players: So. Kristi Chynoweth, MH; Sr. Katelyn Hummel, S; 8th McCallen Kennedy, MH; Sr. Krista Lighter, LIB; So. Victoria McPherson, MH/OH; Devin Rawiszer, OH.
Comment: Well coached, talented team looks to soar to greater heights in 2009.

Class 2A

Westminster Academy
Coached by Katie McCrath
Top Players: So. Leigh Andrew, OH; So. Amelia Bohlander, OH; Jr. Mckenzie Keightley, MH; Jr. Emily McMurtrey, S; Sr. Jenny Walsh, LIB.
Comment: Talented team that is ready to compete at the state level for the championship.

Calvary Christian
Coached by Dan Weppner
Top Players: Jr. Deborah Gordon, OH; Sr. Kaylee Groeneveld, MH; Sr. Stephanie Taylor; Jr. Daylyn Weppner, LIB; Sr. Jessica Wilkie, S.
Comment: Complete team that looks to make 2009 the year of a state championship.

Coral Springs Christian
Coached by Kazumi Takenaka
Top Players: Young talented team looking to make it's mark.

Class 1A

Highland Christian
Coached by Melissa Curtis
Top Players: Sr. Lexie Grizzle, LIB; Jr. Joanna Marko; Sr. Kelley Ray, MH; So. Shelby Rush, S; Jr. Katelyn Wilk, OH.
Comment: Telented team looking to go beyond districts.

Florida Bible
Coached by Dennis Cardoso
Top Players: Jr. Adrienne Robinson, OH; Jr. Selena VanDoren, S; Sr. Hannah Ynacay, S.
Comment: Talented team looks to go far in the playoffs.

Ft. Lauderdale Christian
Coached by Denise Gianino
Top Players: SO. Bobbi Darden S; So. Alicia Wheeler MH
Comment: New additions must step up for the team to be a force again.

FIU Takes Down a Talented Jayhawks Team

The FIU volleyball team was in action at the Jayhawk Invitational on Friday night, as the Panthers came away with a hard-fought 3-1 (23-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-22) win over host Kansas at the Horejsi Family Athletics Center. All this without talented outside hitter Yarimar Rosa.

FIU is now 4-1 on the season, while Kansas falls to 3-2. With the win, the Panthers tie the all-time series with the Jayhawks, 1-1. Kansas is always a nationally ranked team. For FIU to go into their arena in their tournament and to walk away with such a convincing victory could set a powerful tone for the season.

Kansas jumped out to a 4-0 lead but FIU battled back to go ahead, 11-9. Freshman Chanel Araujo later gave the Panthers another two-point advantage at 14-12 as she slammed home a service ace, but the Jayhawks then scored twice to tie the score at 14-14.

The two squads traded leads for the rest of the set and Kansas went up 24-22 before sophomore Sabrina Gonzalez came through with a kill on an assist from junior Natalia Valentin to bring FIU within one. The Jayhawks answered with a kill of their own, however, to take the set by a score of 25-23 and go up 1-0 for the match.

The second set saw 10 ties and four lead changes, as both teams battled back and forth. With the score tied at 22-22, Paige Mazour put Kansas on top by one with a kill, but FIU bounced back and secured the final three points of the set for the 25-23 win.

The Panthers came out strong in the third set, pulling ahead, 7-2. Kansas fought back to a 10-10 tie, but FIU kept steady, never giving up the lead. The Jayhawks got within two at 23-21 before Valentin connected with Gonzalez for a kill to give the Panthers a 24-21 advantage. Kansas struck again to cut the lead to two, but FIU would prevail and take the 25-22 win to go ahead 2-1 for the match.

FIU opened the fourth set with a kill from freshman Jovana Bjelica, who converted on an assist from Valentin in her first ever collegiate start. Twelve ties and six lead changes highlighted the set, as Bjelica and senior Olga Vergun each tallied five kills while sophomore Andrea Lakovic added four for the set.

The Jayhawks held a 22-21 advantage before Vergun tallied a kill (assisted by Valentin) to put the score at 22-22 for the final tie of the match. The Panthers then tallied three straight points to secure the 25-22 win, which gave FIU a 3-1 victory over Kansas.

The Panther attack unit had three players with double-digit kills for the second time today, as Bjelica led FIU with career-bests of 13 kills and 14 digs, while Vergun added 11 kills, four digs, a pair of assists and one block. Senior Isadora Rangel tallied 10 kills on the night to go along with seven digs, two assists and one block.

Defensively, Lakovic secured a season-high six blocks and Araujo picked up 19 digs while adding FIU's only service ace of the evening. Valentin had 11 digs for the night and added a team-best 33 assists.

Always be sure to visit the FIU website to stay in touch with the Golden Panthers.

High School Volleyball Preview: PALM BEACH COUNTY

The Girls High School Volleyball Season is amongst us once again. As the 2009 Season is served, the quest for a state title is on the mind of a few elite teams. At least two teams from Palm Beach could bring home the State Championship.

The re-classification of many schools and their districts has changed many rivalries and have placed greater obstacles towards a State Championship. In Class 6A districts 9 and 10 have been combined, which means that the top teams from those districts will compete for only two spots instead of four.

Last years 6A representatives in Lakeland - Royal Palm Beach lost several key players to graduation but still has talent and good coaching to contend.

Below is a Preview on some of the teams that look to contend for a state title in their respective class:

Class 6A

Royal Palm Beach
Coached by Sal Ciano
Top Players: Shaina Abdell (Sr.); Latoya Harvin (Sr.); Chelsea Leiva (Sr.)
Comment: Solid Foundation, Talented Core

Boca Raton
Coached by Amanda Angermeier
Top Players:Julia Schade (Sr.); Lindsey Knapp (So.); Shannon Gregerek (So.); Maria Christakis (Jr.);Mariah Tiona (Sr.); Natalie Fraley (Jr.)
Comment: Looks to be a Top Contender Again.

Park Vista
Coached by Ira Hubschman
Top Players:Pamela Queirenga (Jr.); Taylor Tendrich (Sr.); Audra Oakley (Sr.); Jenny Peterson (Sr.);Brie Roulette (Sr.); Daniella Vaughan (Sr.); Kendall Clark (Sr.)
Comment: Deep talented team - poised to make a run.

Jupiter
Coached by Blane Betz
Top Players: Brittany Lear (Sr.); Morgan Lear (So.); Lily Bates (Sr.); Jordan Fiser (Jr.); Kim Ponce (Sr.); Rebecca Agnant (Sr.)
Comment: Weak bench might not allow this team to soar.

Palm Beach Central
Coached by Graham Elder
Top Players: Caroline Flinchman (Sr.); Aly Goldstein (Sr.); Brooke D'Aronzo (Sr.); Lexus Love (So.); Meghan O'Donnell (Jr.); Jessie Ilbley (Sr.); Ashley Hammond (Sr.)
Comment: Could very well be a dark horse.

Class 5A

Spanish River
Coached by Roxi Bradway
Top Players: Returning starters: Kristina Wilson (Sr.); Alex Burgess (Sr.); Abby Dusinberre (Sr.); Erin Kaplan (Sr.); Libby Dusinberre (Jr.); Maddy Davell (Jr.); Christina Caserta (Jr.); Ashley Manguel (So.); Shai Levin (Jr.);Olivia Messner (Jr.)
Comment: Loaded team in a lower class should fare well.

West Boca
Coached by Courtney Fochtman
Top Players: Jessica Santaniello (Sr.); Emily Viskovich (Sr.); Gracie Delsing (So.);
Idiz Cruz (Sr.); Erika Laman (Jr.); Necoll Martinez (Jr.); Kristen Wiley (Sr.)
Comment: Talented Senior lead team looks to be head of the class.

Wellington
Coached by Steve Swan
Top Players: Nikki Naccarato (Jr.); Brianna Burch (Jr.); Kelly Sullivan (So.); Kate Rawls (So.); Gabby Sehres (So.); Samantha Oellrich (Sr.); Anna Potes (Sr.); Ashley Oldhan (Jr.); Lindsey Rosenthal (Jr.)
Comment: Talented young team should make a strong push.

Class 4A

Archbishop McCarthy
Coached by Karen Frank
Top Players:Ines Zanotti (Sr.); Casey Uritis (Sr.); Katie Uritis (Jr.); Bridget Bambener (Sr.); Sofia Sanches (Jr.); Courtney Brant (Jr.); Ali Pablos (Jr.)
Comment: Talented team looking to take the next step.

Suncoast
Coached by Mary Jo Murray
Top Players: Courtney Lombardo (Sr.); Connor Brown (Sr.); Lexi Goronsky (Sr.); Sarah Tracy (Sr.); Olivia Schram (Jr.)
Comment: Senior lead team realizes that Now is their time.

Olympic Heights
Coached by Adam Milewski
Top Players: Victoria Basso (Sr.); Taylor Ott (So.); Lindsay Lowy (Jr.); Seema Patel (Jr.); Keely Acrile (Jr.); Jessica Elias (So.); Sarah Elias (So.)
Comment: Team is ready to contend

Class 3A

Cardinal Newman
Coached by Joy Van Dyke
Top Players: Kelly Groover (Sr.); Hannah Fountain (Jr.); Kalin Simione (Jr.); Kelsey Wood (Jr.); Rachel Rendina (Jr.); Katrina Jones (Jr.)
Comment: Talented team must get by top Broward Contenders.

St. Andrews
Coached by Gevette Ocasio
Top Players: Taylor Kennedy; Elizabeth Boshart; Courtney Kaiser;Rachel Panoff; Brooke Stegeman; Zoe Spanbroek
Comment: Looking to improve on last years strong showing.


Class 2A

Benjamin
Coached by Gary Slade
Top Players: Codi Mimun (Sr.); Christine Casey (Jr.); Christie Nicklaus (Jr.); Clara Parker (So.);Payton Celedinas (So.); Maren McRoberts (Jr.); Gabby Gaudet (So.); Samantha Hagar (So.); Raquel Bicknell (Jr.)
Comment: Deep talented team look to have a better record.

Pope John Paul II
Coached by Tara Taylor
Top Players: Emma Rocha (So.); Taylor Meredith (Jr.); Catie Truzzolino (Sr.); Jessica DeFreitas (Sr.); Pam Morrison (Jr.); Bailey Callaway (Jr.); Kaitlyn Frontera (Jr.)
Comment: Talented team looking to make it's mark on the 2009 season.

Kings Academy
Coached by Rebekah Haine
Top Players: Christine Alessi (Sr.); Emily Walz (Sr.); Samantha Evans (So.); Briana Whalin (So.); Mikah Adams (Jr.)
Comment: Looking for a strong winning season.


Class 1A

Lake Worth Christian
Coached by Terri Kaiser
Top Players: Danielle Lampman (Sr.); Kristen Kintz (So.); Katelyn Mears (Sr.); Brytney Annis (Jr.); Kristy Golden (Jr.); Amanda Krach (Jr.); Gabby Fisher (Jr.); Samantha Cantwell (Jr.)
Comment: The state runner up last year only lost one senior. This team has a great chance to bring home a state championship.

Summit Christian
Coached by Alicia Hobson
Top Players: Amber Courtright (Jr.); Elaine McCormick (Jr.); Ashley Burns (Sr.); Vicki Murrell (Jr.); Amanda Piersante (Sr.); Michelle Chambers (So.)
Comment: Talented team should go far.

Boca Raton Christian
Coached by Len Visser
Top Players: Devyn Horsley (Sr.); Emily Woda (Sr.); Kirsti Burgess (Sr.); Monica Sowen (Jr.); Sami Spidell (Jr.); Georgia Morton (Jr.)
Comment: Veteran team should post a superior record to that of last year.

Throughout the season we will be posting top weekly performances and showing the Nation how hard you work and how good you play.

Attn: Coaches and Parents send us game photos and comments on a team or player, we will post it on the report.

University Round-Up - Week 1 Aug 27th - 31st

First and foremost, I'd like to point out a few new link lists on the right side bar. I have added links to our local community college teams. In addition, I have added links to the major volleyball programs in our state.

I've been more excited about the beginning of Volleyball than I am about the beginning of the professional football season - Go Dolphins!

Finally this past weekend, the volleyball season opened with our local universities and local high school teams.


Below is a recap of how our local universities fared:

Florida International University DIV I:
FIU opened on the road in Lexington for the Kentucky Classic.
FIU def. Western Carolina 3-0
FIU def. Northwestern 3-2 in a nail biter,
FIU fell to #21 Kentucky 0-3
FIU Took (2nd) Second in the Kentucky Classic.

University of Miami DIV I:
UM def. FGCU 3-0
UM def. Prairie View A&M 3-0
UM fell to USF 1-3
UM Took 2nd) Second in the Hurricane Invitational.

Florida Atlantic University DIV I:
FAU falls to North Florida 2-3
FAU falls to DePaul 1-3
FAU falls to UCF 0-3
FAU falls to Jacksonville 0-3

Lynn University DIV II:
Lynn def. West Florida 3-2
Lynn falls to Lewis 0-3
Lynn def. Montevallo 3-0

#19 Nova South Eastern DIV II:
NSU falls to #5 West Texas 0-3
NSU def. Southwestern Oklahoma 3-0
NSU def. UT Periman Basin 3-2
NSU falls to #4 Grand Valley State 0-3

Keep up with all your favorite teams by clicking on the corresponding link on the right side bar.