By DELBERT PETERS

Staff writer

Goessel’s volleyball team finished the 2021 season with a record of 26-12, and the 2022 team is determined to continue that success.

This year’s 14-member team has a lot of athleticism.

Senior leaders include libero, Ashley Rosfeld, who will anchor the back row with digs and passes to the setter.

“Since we lack height, we will really have to work hard on blocks and defense,” Rosfeld said. “We will need to be smarter in where we place our hits on offense.”

Rylee Walker will be expected to block on defense and contribute as a hitter on offense.

“The younger players on the team will look to us for leadership,” she said.

Emma Schroeder will contribute on defense from the back row.

“We, as seniors, will need to build confidence in our teammates with less experience,” she said.

Junior Jaicee Griffin will be a force at the net and brings experience from last year as a returning starter.

Sophomores Logan Bryant, with power in her left hand, and Brooklyn Wuest, with power in her right, are expected to contribute as hitters.

Two other sophomores, Abbigail Funk and Aimee Funk, will use quickness to prevent opposing hitters from finding the hardwood.

The Bluebirds will be looking for someone to step up to the role of varsity setter. Coach Crysta Guhr observes, “Goessel’s success will depend upon how quickly players can adapt to new roles and leadership opportunities.”

Aggressive serving will be a trademark of the Bluebird squad this year.

The Bluebirds will see tough league competition in a robust Little River team. Non-league matches against Lebo, Sedgwick, Halstead and Wabaunsee will test the Bluebirds.

The team’s challenges began with their season-opening games against two strong opponents.

Goessel lost both matches, falling 25-20 and 25-22 to Wichita Central Christian Academy and 25-16 and 25-12 the Lebo, ranked No. 2 in the state in Class 1A Division II.

Goessel will play Saturday in its Bluebird Invitational.