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2008 Trojans are Experienced Youth

The 2008 Trojans feature several returning players from the 2007 squad that, while competitive they were short on victories, and in 2008 the Trojans expect to begin gaining dividends for the underclass heavy lineup of 2007. Head coach Cynthia Henning, in her ninth year at the helm of the Trojan Volleyball program, is very optimistic about her 2008 squad. “We had some growing pains last season and our players matured a great deal and worked very hard in the off season. I expect that hard work and learning curve to begin paying off this year.”

The 2008 squad features 16 players including lone senior Laura Lanoue who started at the libero position for the Trojans last year and looks to return in that capacity this fall. Lanoue lead the DAC averaging 7.61 digs per game last year. “In the spring season Laura really starting making some big strides in getting in better position to play more balls and her passing has become increasingly more consistent,” said Coach Henning. “I really look for her to show steady play and leadership on the court for us this season.”

The junior class is small in size but big on experience with Vicki Kaul and Rachael Jensen. Kaul, a medical redshirt last season, looks to earn the starting nod for the right side position. Kaul, according to Henning has rehabbed very well and is back stronger than ever. “The year out for Vicki was a learning experience as she saw the game from a different side.” Kaul is expected to come into fall camp ready to go and back to 100% for the Trojans.

Junior outside hitter Rachael Jensen is the most experienced player on the Trojan roster. Jensen has started every match since her freshman campaign and she has adapted very well to the speed and tempo of the college level. Jensen averaged 3.06 kills per game and 4.01 digs per game in 2007. “Rachael had a break out year as a sophomore with more than doubling her kill production from her freshman to sophomore season. We expect that maturity to continue this year,” said Coach Henning, “and look for her to continue developing into a team leader on and off the court.”

It is the sophomore level where the Trojans return their most depth. Sophomores Margie Anthony, Kristy Bendickson, Erica Gall, Dominique Lee, transfer Jenna Manzey, Amy Pheneger, and Ashley Schulte make up the bulk of the Trojan roster and the majority of them saw extensive playing time last season. Anthony’s athleticism was used last year to help shore up the middle attack for the Trojans but this season she has moved to the outside. “Margie is very quick and explosive and the year in the middle will be a great asset to her,” said Coach Henning. Anthony is expected to challenge for one of the starting outside hitter positions.

Bendickson is a right side hitter who has a bullet for a serve. She saw limited play in varsity matches but has spent the off season working on her armswing and those improvements are expected to show up in fall camp. “As Kristy has become more comfortable with our system, her play has improved and we look for that to continue this year,” said Coach Henning. Bendickson will be a go to person if the Trojans are struggling with serving and will help keep competition for the right side tight.

Gall, who was a medical redshirt her freshman season, has steadily improved and the Trojans have been very happy with her progress. Gall, according to Coach Henning, “continues to get better every day. She has great communication on the court.” Gall has worked at both the right and outside positions and this year looks to make a complete move to outside hitter.

Lee, who was used primarily as middle last year, is also making the move to the outside. “Last year the middle was a problem area for us and Dom was one of several players we used in that capacity,” said Coach Henning, “but we feel we’ve made some strides in that area and now can get Dom time at outside.” Lee’s strong armswing will be beneficial but she has to fine tune her timing and patience on the outside attack. As she continues to get comfortable on the outside she will definitely strengthen the depth of this position for the Trojans.

Manzey, a transfer from the University of Sioux Falls, has brought a lot of versatility to the Trojan line up. She is able to play multiple positions as a right side, setter, and middle hitter and that versatility is one thing that Coach Henning likes. “Jenna is a great addition to our squad. She is comfortable in many positions and we have already used her in several during fall camp. “ Manzey has quickly adjusted to the Trojan offense and looks to be an increasing part of the Trojans program.