Craig’s Lady Titans on a magical mission
Southwick to play pivotal role in Tri-Valley’s success
By Ray Rodriguez
Argus Observer
Wednesday, August 20, 2008 9:46 AM PDT
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| Argus Observer File Photo
Ariel Southwick (right) skies for the kill in this Argus Observer file photo. Southwick, a senior outside hitter and defensive specialist, who earned second team all-league honors a season ago, blasted onto the scene with 162 kills, 136 digs and 35 service aces for the Lady Titans. |
Cambridge-Midvale—In 2008, the Tri-Valley Titan volleyball team is a group on a mission.
After missing out on the big dance a season ago with a fifth place finish at districts, veteran head coach Shelly Craig is optimistic of her team’s chance to regain their powerful resurgence into the upper echelon of the 1A Big Schools Long Pin Conference.
If the Lady Titans are to make the push forward, Ariel Southwick and three other returners will be counted on to fill the bill.
Southwick, a senior outside hitter and defensive specialist, who earned second team all-league honors a season ago, blasted onto the scene with 162 kills, 136 digs and 35 service aces.
Craig said Southwick was the most consistent player on her roster in 2007, and she expects the same type of productivity.
“She is everything for us,” Craig said. “She passes well, hits well and is a hustle player who thinks and is all over the court. She is the type of player that gets it done no matter what it is. She’s 5-foot-7 inches. She’s fairly short but can hit the ball pretty good.”
Kelsey Doggett, a middle blocker, and Leah Gladheart are two other returners, who could lead the Titans to some wins.
Gladheart is tabbed early on as the teams’ libero, a switch from last year.
“Leah has always been a background player and never stood out. During the summer, she was one kid who came out willing to work hard,” Craig said. “She is excited about playing a new position. It’s tough to try a whole new position, but she offered to do it and has done an outstanding job.”
New to the mix are a pair of setters in Megan Woodman and Amber-Lynn Sherman, who have the daunting task of replacing all-league standout Brenna Craig.
In her junior and senior seasons, Craig rattled off 543 assists, 88 digs and 64 services aces for Tri-Valley.
“Megan, she is new to the school, but early on has been really consistent. As a setter, she would fit in really well with our group,” coach Craig said. “Amber Lynn is a quiet little player, but she can definitely play.”
Looking at the Long Pin Conference, Craig said Horseshoe Bend is the team to beat, while the rest of the league is fighting for the top rungs on the ladder.
“I think our goal is to do well during the season and play it on the same level through districts,” Craig said. “In doing so, we can make a state berth. But with anything we will take it one game at a time.”
This year, the 1A has cut down the amount of state qualifiers from four to two, so Craig feels the tough task is certainly attainable.
“Of course it is more of a challenge, but I think we’re up for it,” Craig said. “These girls have a huge amount of pride in the fact they are learning and excelling. They should be ready to take that next step.”
Tri-Valley hits the court Aug. 26 at the Weiser Volleyball Jamboree, and kicks off another road date Sept. 2 at Meadows Valley.
