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The University of Mississippi Athletics
Volleyball Kicks Off New Era
8/12/2002 | Volleyball
Aug. 12, 2002
OXFORD, Miss. - The Ole Miss volleyball team officially kicked off a new era last Thursday with the beginning of the 2002 preseason under first-year head coach Joe Getzin. A total of 11 letterwinners, including three starters from a year ago reported to camp along with six newcomers.
"We've been pleased with the start of preseason," Getzin said. "We had nine girls here for the second summer term, and they put a lot of time in the weight room. The results are showing up in practice. This is one of the best conditioned teams I've been involved with. We have been able to accomplish several things and move ahead quicker than I anticipated."
The Lady Rebels boast five seniors, including returning leading blockers Erin Newsom and Sarah Lansden. Lansden will also see plenty of action at the new Libero position.
A defensive position that has been used in international play for several years, the libero is a permanent back row position that is prohibited from serving or attacking a ball above the top of the net. The libero also wears a different color jersey from her teammates to make the distinction for the officials easier.
Sophomore Elena Garcia (Austin, Texas) returns at the outside hitter position, after starting 20 of 25 matches as a freshman. She finished second on the team in kills (250) and digs (235). Among the newcomers include 5-9 setter Katie Griffin of Austin, Texas, who earned All-State first team honors her senior year. The Lady Rebels have added height to the squad with 6-3 middle blocker Rachel Refenes of Menomonee Falls, Wisc.
Other newcomers include Katherine Jensen (West Vancouver, B.C.), Betsy Saunders (Charleston, S.C.), McAmy Tiner (Dallas, Texas) and Nikki Veach (Alpharetta, Ga.).
"We are excited about the six newcomers," Getzin said. "They have brought a new energy to the gym and a couple of them could push for starting spots.
"It is also nice to have an outstanding coaching staff in the gym with plenty of experience at every level. This has allowed us to give more individual attention to the players."
The Lady Rebels will continue two-a-days for the remainder of the week with school starting on Aug. 19. The team opens the season Aug. 30 against Eastern Kentucky at the Montana Invitational in Missoula, Mont.
