Aug. 7, 2009

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Friday morning marked the last day of the summer session at the University of South Carolina, and it also marked a new beginning for the 2009 Gamecock volleyball squad, as the student-athletes officially reported to campus on Friday.

The day started with photo day for the Gamecocks, which included newcomers Taylor Bruns, Brandi Byers, Christina Glover and Tory Shepherd. Some went for physicals while others finished up their finals for the summer. After settling into their respective dorms and apartments, the team went through meetings with the South Carolina academic and compliance offices.

At the conclusion of the meetings, the team learned of their surprise, a scavenger hunt meant to get the team familiar with their new hometown. Director of operations Kristin Belzung, assistant coach Laura Collins and associate head coach Damian Elder put together clues that had the team going around downtown and to many important places on campus, including the Rex Enright Athletic Center, the current Academic Enrichment Center and the Roost Cafeteria. They also visited South Carolina’s famous Horseshoe and many local businesses. Each group of four had to complete tasks at each site and record a video. The team watched all four productions while ending the day with dinner in the conference room in the volleyball offices.

“It is great to have everyone back on campus and together again,” said Gamecock head coach Ben Somera. “Our opening day scavenger hunt provided a lot of priceless moments. We will try to keep that energy and enthusiasm throughout preseason.”

Practice for the squad begins early on Saturday morning. South Carolina opens the 2009 season at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 28 at archrival Clemson in the Big Orange Bash.