The first volleyball game of the season was on Monday, August 27th, at Borgia High School. This year there are two new assistant coaches, Mrs. Julie Westermeyer and Miss Rachel Horstmann.
“I decided to get back into coaching because our district had a lot of open coaching positions,” said Mrs. Julie Westermeyer. “I have coached high school, middle school, and elementary volleyball in the past, and it just seemed like the right time to get back onto the court.”
“I have always wanted to return to New Haven to work as a Teacher of the Deaf, and with that I also knew I wanted to be a part of the New Haven volleyball program as well because it was such a big part of my high school experience,” said Miss Rachel Horstmann. “So, when Coach Hoener asked me to coach there was no way I was going to turn down an opportunity that I have always wanted.”
According to the Mrs. Hoener, this year's team motto is P.U.S.H.-- meaning Persist Until Something Happens. The volleyball team will use this motto to help them achieve their goals during their season. The coaches were asked what they were hoping to achieve with their teams this year.
Mrs. Jaime Hoener replied, “The team's goals are to be conference champions, win our tournament, win districts, and play in the state tournament.”
“I am very excited for the upcoming season,” said Miss Horstmann. “I was eager to be coaching the freshman team because not only is this a new experience for them, but also for myself. We are learning and building as a team together. Throughout practice we have already improved in strength and areas of communication, so I hope it continues as we begin playing other teams.”
“I am excited to be working with this group of girls because they are so fun to be around,” replied Mrs. Westermeyer. “Coach Hoener has established a highly respected volleyball program that not only teaches girls about the sport, but they are also learning to be good citizens in our community. I am so happy to be a part of that.”
The varsity team was also asked what their individual goals for this year are.
“I hope that we can beat all the other people's expectations about us,” said McKenzie Pecaut, a setter and outside hitter.
McKenzie Overschmidt, outside hitter and left back, replied, “To win more games than last year! To make it past districts!”
The senior athletes were also asked how they felt about this being their last season.
Makenzie Munsinger, back row, said, “I am going to miss playing the sport.”
“I’m excited, but sad at the same time. The last three years have been fun, and I’m hoping this season will be the same, but obviously I’m sad about this being my last season,” said Grace Soete, middle hitter.
Good luck to the volleyball team this upcoming season, and best of luck on achieving your goals.