Aug. 24, 2009

The anchor of the defense stands to be senior captain Sarah Cline. While playing libero most of the past two seasons, Cline earned first-team ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District honors in 2008. She ranked in the top 10 in the SEC in digs per set and helped the team improve to second in the league as a team with 15.17 digs per set. But Cline adds much more than just her physical ability, says Somera.

“Her ability to connect our team emotionally to one another takes some pressure of our setter so she can focus on our offense. There are no technical aspects of the game where she needs to get better. It’s just a matter of getting out there and bringing what she’s got to the best of her abilities. I think we are very lucky to have a libero who is beyond the technical and is ready to play a tactical volleyball game.”

Bradosky could see time in the defensive role. Also competing for time will be Lindsey Roy. The Cincinnati, Ohio, product spent last year getting adjusted to the collegiate speed of play while taking a redshirt. She brings a lot of energy to the court as well and has a chance to see time as a defensive specialist.

“Lindsey comes from a pretty similar mode (as Cline),” remarked Somera, “and I could see her being our next libero or a right back sub. Whatever we need, I think Lindsey has the ability to affect us a server, passer and defender. She does those things very well, and she will have the opportunity to carve out a role for herself.”