TicketsAug. 9, 2009
CINCINNATI - On the heels of winning a share of the program's first BIG EAST Conference regular-season championship in 2008, the 2009 edition of the University of Cincinnati volleyball team reported for fall camp today as it prepares for the upcoming 2009 season.
"We're really excited that pre-season is here and we're ready to get started," said 10th-year head coach Reed Sunahara. "The players have been working hard all summer and they are ready to get in the gym and train."
Cincinnati returns four starters and its libero from last year's squad, including two-time all-conference performer, junior outside hitter Stephanie Niemer, and 2008 second-team all-BIG EAST recipient, junior setter Annie Fesl. In addition, UC returns sophomore outside hitter Missy Harpenau, junior middle hitter Lindsay Upton, junior defensive specialist Julie Guenther, and senior libero Jaime Frey.
"We have a good mixture of returning players and freshmen. We now need to make sure that we get everyone up to speed," said Sunahara.
With the loss of five seniors from last year's team, including three-time AVCA honorable-mention all-American Jessie Nevitt and 2008 second-team all-BIG EAST performer Jessica Elley, Cincinnati looks to its talented 2009 recruiting class of Jordanne Scott, Emily Hayden, Megan Turner, Becca Refenes, and Karen Onuki to step in and compete for starting spots from Day 1.
"I believe this class is arguably one of the most athletic recruiting classes we've had at UC," said Sunahara. "This group has the ability to make an immediate impact and will add a diverse set of skills to what we have returning."
The incoming recruiting class ranked 29th nationally according to Prepvolleyball.com, marking the second consecutive year that UC has had its recruiting class ranked in the Top 30.
Volleyball season tickets are available to adults for $20 and to youth, UCATS members, and seniors for $10. To purchase season tickets call 1-877-CATS-TIX.