The University of Redlands volleyball team anticipates another exciting season with specific goals and expectations in mind.  Loaded with 12 returning players and the addition of six new players, the Bulldogs are well-equipped with depth, talent, and a competitive edge.  In addition, the squad looks forward to the new leadership of Head Coach Mari Burningham.  She offers a vibrant outlook, fresh ideas and intense hopes for this year and beyond.  Coach Burningham strives to make this program her own by instigating some new philosophies that include unique passing techniques, a simplified defense, and consistent discipline for success.

“Having a new coach come in is always difficult on a team. Redlands has done an amazing job of learning my systems and coaching style, as well as picking up on a lot of new techniques,” Coach Burningham stated.  “In addition, the level of competition among our players has been outstanding.  It’s exciting to see where we can go.”

The Bulldogs boast a deep setting corps that includes Second Team All-SCIAC performer senior Courtney Cho (Aiea, HI).  She returns for her final season after a record-breaking experience in 2003.  Cho currently owns the single season assist record with 1,035, which blew out the previous record of 689.  In addition, the squad is excited to see junior Diana Lautenberger (San Francisco, CA) in the mix for the top setting position.  She brings a solid work ethic that ignites the court around her.  Finally, Redlands will work to develop newcomer junior Jamie Allazetta (Las Vegas, NV) and versatile player sophomore Rachae’ Bell (Davenport, WA) into viable options.  Both offer quality skills and determination to this vital aspect of the lineup.

Complementing the strong setters are the numerous hitters, including a seasoned crew of right-side hitters.  Senior Corinne Flowers (Valley Center, CA) leads the pack as the top returnee.  With three years of solid experience, she will prove to be a threatening offensive option for the squad.  Last season, she boasted a .211 hitting percentage, which was third behind the starting attackers, playing both on the right- and left-sides.  Sophomore leftie Lizzy Ford (Seattle, WA) anticipates another strong season as she settles into the right side.  With that being her strong side, she looks to make an impact on offense and blocking.  Finally, the squad welcomes the addition of sophomore transfer Jessica Walker (Redlands, CA).  After a year of training with the Coyotes of Cal State San Bernardino, she offers great experience and solid attacking skills.  In addition, her hands are well-equipped to serve as an optional setter for the team.

On the left-side, Redlands concentrates on rebuilding the position with some familiar and fresh faces.  Returning to action this season is junior Marla Smith (Orange, CA).  With a rekindled desire to compete, she brings a quiet intensity and excellent skills at the net.  During her freshman year, she served as a strong option on the left-side, boasting a .239 hitting percentage.  This season, her leadership and versatile hitting skills will be true assets to the team’s success.  In addition, the Bulldogs return sophomore Tracy Bard (Chino, CA) who gained valuable experience as a rookie.  She offers improved passing and defensive skills as well as the tools to develop into a competitive attacker.  The squad is excited to include freshmen Lori Nakamura (Honolulu, HI) and Cassie McEuen (Mountain View, CA) in the mix of viable outside hitters.  Both show promise as competitive and versatile players with Nakamura’s outstanding jumping ability and McEuen’s solid hand on the ball.

The Bulldogs return three middles in senior Beth DeGuzman (Hilo, HI), junior Sara Monahan (Des Moines, WA) and sophomore All-SCIAC player Shelley Langford (Newport Beach, CA).  With well-rounded experience and outstanding skills, each offers the team excellent coverage in the middle.  Last season, DeGuzman hit .221 and provided 51 total blocks while Langford knocked down 232 kills and 73 total blocks, leading the middles in both categories.  Monahan grew from her playing opportunities and will look to compete for additional time on the floor.  In addition, freshman Emily Klarer (El Cajon, CA) brings solid hitting and blocking skills.  Although she will have to adjust to the college game, she will provide excellent depth for the Bulldogs.

On defense, Redlands returns junior libero Jenn Terrian (San Diego, CA), who gained solid experience last season as one of the top defenders.  She popped up 247 digs, proving her effectiveness on the floor.  Sophomore Cecily Goo (Honolulu, HI) will also vie for playing time at the libero position after an excellent rookie season where she was named the team’s most improved player.  Beyond her setting responsibilities, Bell will also contribute defensively.  She provided 266 digs last season, which ranks second among the returnees.  Besides her skills, her dynamic and competitive personality will push the team toward success.  Newcomer junior Emily Erickson (Boise, ID) anticipates her first season on the team as a defensive specialist.  Her unselfishness and focused mentality will help her teammates.

With 18 players on the roster, the Bulldogs instantly offer depth and competitiveness to each of their opponents.  The team opens the season at the always challenging Whittier-Occidental Tournament.  Redlands faces a variety of opponents, including Northwest Conference members Whitworth College and Linfield College, along with NAIA school Vanguard University.   The Bulldogs realize that the SCIAC will be tough as usual but with a new coach, different philosophies and a slew of returning players, the squad is ready to face their biggest challenges.

“Our opening tournament will be a nice break from practice and to see where we measure up against other teams.  I am confident that these opponents will help prepare us for our upcoming regional matches,” Coach Burningham commented.  “I feel the team is fired up and ready to compete.”