As the new season approaches, Head Coach Samantha Neely is setting the Mt. SAC Women's Volleyball Team up for a standout year. With the team undergoing a near-total transformation, there is a lot of room for fresh talent and opportunities. "We are really excited to welcome 15 new faces to the gym this season," Coach Neely said. "With six returners, only one of which was a starter, this is almost an entirely brand-new team."

This year's roster features 10 sophomores, including five transfers, two of which are coming from Division II programs. Coach Neely is enthusiastic about how things are developing, but the challenge is to get everyone on the same page. "It's been a work in progress as far as trusting the process and integrating the new players with our returners, however, they've shown great adaptability and have really embraced our program's culture and goals."

Team captain and outside hitter Candace Ceballos will play a crucial role this season, bringing both skill and leadership to the court. Fellow returning sophomores including setter Eva Becerra, libero Freda Lei and right side hitter Brianna De Jong are stepping up as key leaders, setting ambitious goals and guiding their teammates towards success.

The primary goal for this season is to clinch the 3C2A Championship. With Mt. SAC hosting the match again this year, the team is eager to compete for the title in their home arena. "Last year we fell one game short of being able to compete in the championship match and it felt like something was left unfinished," Neely reflected. "But I think this could be our strongest team in a long time and this year we expect to be in it."

Building on last year's historic achievement where the team advanced further than ever before, this season's focus is on continuing that momentum.  With the excitement of this year's Olympics, the team is inspired to go for the gold. Coach Neely enjoyed watching the men's and women's teams compete in the Olympics and discussing it with her players. "This is such and exciting time and volleyball has exploded in popularity," Neely exclaimed. "The US teams are leading the way, and it is such a good example for our girls."

As their leader, Coach Neely takes great pride in setting a positive example for her team. She has developed a strong culture over the last five years and has enjoyed watching her athletes embrace it each season. She keeps the environment upbeat while also challenging them to be their best every day. "I want each player to be committed to growth," Neely said. "Some of those days will be hard, but trusting the process and me as their coach we will be able to accomplish so much more than together than any individual can apart."

The team has been diligently training for this season and is prepared to represent what Mt. SAC stands for; a place where champions compete. They open the season at home on Friday, August 23, at 5:00 PM against Citrus College. We hope to see you in the stands cheering for the team.

Follow Mt. SAC Women's Volleyball on Twitter @MtSAC_WVB or Instagram /mtsacvolleyball/

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For additional information, please contact the Mt. SAC Sports Information Office at 909.274.4630.