Aug. 8, 2012
by Koby Padgett
Assistant Media Relations Director
COLUMBIA, S.C. – The 2012 South Carolina volleyball team started its preseason practices today, and the 17 Gamecocks on the roster put together two solid periods of work to start their drills. The student-athletes also had simulated game situations throughout the day, impressing the coaching staff throughout.
“I was pleasantly surprised at the level of athleticism that we have in the gym,” said Gamecock head coach Scott Swanson. “With 17 players, we are going to have a lot of quality depth on our roster. We just want to keep moving forward and keep getting better. We have a lot of work to do. We have the rest of preseason to keep progressing.”
Swanson and staff brought in seven new freshmen, all of whom went through their first full day of college practice. And the remarks on their work were strong as well.
“A lot of our freshmen are coming in and competing for different positions, and, if not finding a starting spot, they are going to be a really good backup to our experienced players,” remarked Swanson. “I thought they worked very hard and were eager to learn our new system and how our gym culture works. Overall, I couldn’t be more pleased with their work ethic, their attitude and their ability to learn.”
The freshmen definitely noticed the quicker pace of things than what they were used to in club or high school practices.
“(Practice) was very competitive,” commented freshman Sarah Blomgren. “It’s been very fast-paced, but it’s been solid for everyone. I was surprised to find how similar the drills are here to what I have been learning. I felt a little more comfortable than I thought I would be.”
The team went through voluntary workouts all summer, working especially hard with Gamecock assistant strength and conditioning coach Jon Vaden. That prepared them well for the first two-a-day of the fall.
“They looked pretty fresh at the end during their serving and sprinting drill,” said Swanson. “Jon did an awesome job of getting them in great shape and getting them stronger this summer. I think they worked pretty hard, coming in knowing what they needed to do to play in the SEC.”
Fans can get a sneak peek at the season on Sunday, as the team hosts its Garnet and Black Scrimmage at 4:30 p.m. on Sun., Aug. 12, not long after Fan Appreciation Day, which starts at 12:30 p.m. at Colonial Life Arena that day.
