The 2019 Triad varsity volleyball team is pictured from left, front row, Emma Dorn, Holly Alvoid, Gracie Sheets and Bailey Perry; second row, coach Brooke Welty, Kelsey Cole, Kendell Hughes, Jordyn Unger and Sidney Louck.
(Journal-Tribune photo by Sam Dillon)
Consistency has been an issue for the past few years for the Triad volleyball team.
The Lady Cardinals have struggled to keep a coach at the helm, but new boss Brooke Welty said that will all change with her.
“I told the girls from the beginning that I want to grow this program,” said Welty. “I’m in it for the long haul.
“I want our female student body to see how hard work, dedication, leadership and positivity can build a program and prepare them for a successful future both on and off the court.”
The new coach said that having six seniors on this year’s crew has really helped.
“Having six seniors is a definite advantage in that the girls know one another and have played together through their careers,” she said.
Those returning seniors are Gracie Sheets, Jordyn Unger, Bailey Perry, Kendell Hughes, Sidney Louck and Kelsey Cole.
They have been the heart of the team during the previous coaching staff and the consistency has really transferred to the play of the team, according to Welty.
“I have good consistency with my setters,” she said. “Our attacks and blocks are coming along nicely and the hustle and accuracy of my passers is also really improving.”
“Our serves are relatively consistent and well placed.”
Rounding out the rest of the team are juniors Holly Alvoid and Emma Dorn.
Even with a wealth of experience on the court, Welty said communication has still been an issue during her short time with the team.
“The biggest thing I feel we need to work on at this point is consistent communication and maintaining competitive energy and effort throughout the whole match,” she said.
Even with the early woes (a 1-4 record), Welty’s main hope is to bring a new perspective to the Cardinals.
The Triad volleyball program struggled last year, not tallying a single win (0-16).
Welty believes the team has talent and potential.
She said it is her responsibility to find out how to tap into that potential and turn it into victories.
“I feel like I bring a fresh perspective and new momentum to the team,” she said. “I want my girls to have fun, but I also have high expectations for their overall performance and drive when playing the game.
“There’s a lot of talent on this team and figuring out how to harness that in the most effective way is something I’m working to establish.”
To get to those wins Welty said the plan is simple.
“Be better today than we were yesterday,” she said. “Play with heart, fight for what you want and respect one another for the talents each individual brings to the court.”