2005 Bryant Volleyball Preview

    Following back-to-back Northeast-10 Conference titles, and six consecutive trips to the NCAA Tournament, it may be hard for the Bryant University women’s volleyball team to shoot for loftier goals.

     After years of knocking on the door, this year’s team has high hopes that just the right mix of talent and experience could position the Bulldogs to potentially contend for a regional title and trip to the Elite Eight. Twice in the past three years, Bryant has reached the regional final with last year’s team eliminated in the semifinals.  

     However, that was last year. With another year of making a run in the playoffs behind them, this year’s team has an excellent mix of leadership plus talent for 10th-year coach Theresa Garlacy.    

    “This year’s team is one of the most well-rounded we’ve had in years,” said Garlacy.  “There are so many options, we may be moving people all season until we find the right combination.”

    The Bulldogs figure to be once again in the mix come postseason play in ‘05. Here’s how the Bulldogs look heading into the new year.

OUTSIDE HITTER

     Bryant will welcome back one of the top offensive weapons in the region in senior standout Michelle Muñiz.  Currently second all-time in career kills, Muñiz’ resumé continues to grow with each season.  A two-time AVCA All-American, Muñiz is the reigning two-time conference player of the year and will likely conclude her career as the holder of all of Bryant’s all-time kill records.

      She’ll be joined by experienced juniors Jessica Cegarra and Vanessa Lavallee on the outside.  The pair have played a key role in the team’s success over the past two seasons. Cegarra brings excellent quickness and is a two-time all-conference selection. Lavallee gives the team instant offense off the bench and earned all-tournament honors at the NCAA regional in 2004.   Freshman Victoria Monette is a hard-hitting newcomer joining the team this fall looking to contribute this season.

    Junior Patricia Jiménez and freshman Chelsea Grajczyk will anchor the right side.  Jiménez has developed into an excellent blocker at the net, giving the team a spark with her athletic play and quick hits.  Watch for her to make a statement this season with her play.

MIDDLE

   The Bulldogs have it’s top middle back this year in senior Lindsay Klix.    Klix, a senior, is an experience veteran who may be one of the team’s most consistent players.  Another key member to the team’s offense, her blocking skill will be crucial to the team’s success. 

    Junior Beth Schlatterer will contribute at both the middle and opposite positions. Her leadership and maturity will be a vital part of Bryant’s quick offense.

DEFENSIVE SPECIALISTS

     The Bulldogs lose their all-time best in Carola Pierluisi, but veteran Elysce Tackman will challange to fill the role as well as contribute to assist running the Bulldog offense as a reserve setter. 

     Newcomers Maureen Atkins and Delia Glover look to give the team excellent defensive play this season.  Both have excellent passing skills and athletic talent and should see plenty of time defensively.  Glover is also a big jumper and will contribute at times as an outside hitter.

SETTER

    The Bulldogs have an experience starter back in Tiffany Garry.  Garry is coming off a tremendous freshman season that saw her earn second team all-conference honors and Northeast-10 Setter of the Year distinction.