Volleyball set to open 2013 with Tri Match at Castleton tomorrow

North Adams, MA- The MCLA Volleyball program will look to breakthrough in 2013 as they return eight letterwinners heading into the season opening tri match at Castleton State tomorrow.  The Trailblazers will challenge Green Mountain in the opener, before facing the hosts in the nightcap.

Led by head coach Amanda Beckwith, MCLA posted a 10-19 mark a year ago.  Beckwith returns a strong core of veterans, led by All MASCAC performer Julia Christian.  Christian led the program in kills and blocks one year ago.  She will be counted on to perform at the net all season for MCLA.

Christian was named a captain for the season alongside fellow senior Kendra Hobbs.  Hobbs also provided solid numbers last year, finishing second on the team in block and will see time in a variety of different positions.  One of the newcomers to Beckwith's squad will also be counted on to produce up front.  First year Sam Anderson should see plenty of action and could develop in to a top hitting and blocking threat for the Trailblazers.  Another freshman, Rachel Mills, is very talented and should produce immediate results, especially on the offensive front.

The Trailblazers will face a challenging schedule as they have only nine home dates out of 28 matches.  MCLA will compete in a pair of tournaments, one at Keuka College next weekend and the other at Cazenovia over Columbus day weekend.  Another highlight is the early season home date of September 10th against Mount Holyoke where MCLA will unveil their new mascot during the 2nd and 3rd set.

The challenges have Beckwith excited to get things moving.  "The season looks promising as we look to improve significantly over last season," Beckwith said.   "We look forward to seeing the community at our first home game on the 10th where MCLA will unveil our new mascot," she continued. 

For more information on the Trailblazer Volleyball program, log onto to www.mcla.edu/athletics