Saint Vincent Women's Volleyball Team Looks to Improve on Last Season's Performance

Strategic Insights -

The Saint Vincent women's volleyball team is gearing up for a promising season, despite graduating key players from last year's squad. Sophomore outside hitter Meegan Williams reflected on the team's 2024 season, stating that they "broke under the pressure" in their loss to Allegheny in the Presidents' Athletic Conference final. However, instead of being frustrated by the loss, Williams said it actually fueled their anticipation for this season. The team's focus on improvement is evident, with Williams and fellow freshman outside hitter Dakota Hershberger being leaned on heavily alongside senior middle hitter Lauren Fox.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Saint Vincent women's volleyball team is still young, with only five players who aren't freshmen or sophomores, and has vacancies to fill at key spots.
  • The team graduated key players, including first-team all-conference setter Vivian Poach, libero Stacie Ramos, and second-teamer Kaelyn Staples-Klasnic, who led the team in kills per set and ranked third in digs per set.
  • Sophomore outside hitters Meegan Williams and Dakota Hershberger are expected to be pivotal in the team's success, with Williams averaging 2.82 kills and 3.83 digs per set, and Hershberger averaging 2.14 kills and 2.44 digs.
  • The team's defense is still a work in progress, and coach Susan Hozak may take some time to settle on her defensive rotation and setter deployment.
  • The Bearcats were picked to win the South Division, but face challenges from W&J and Chatham, and believe they have the confidence to overcome any obstacles.

Statistics:

  • Meegan Williams averaged 2.82 kills and 3.83 digs per set in 2024, and served up a team-leading 35 aces.
  • Dakota Hershberger averaged 2.14 kills and 2.44 digs per set in 2024.
  • Lauren Fox led the team with 84 total blocks in 2024 and contributed 1.63 kills per set.
  • The team's 2025 season began 1-2 at the Bearcat Challenge.

Sources:

  • [The Tribune-Review (Greensburg, Pa.)]
  • [www.triblive.com]
  • [Chuck Curti is a TribLive copy editor and reporter who covers district colleges]
  • [Ap Sports Editors]