The Lady Panthers volleyball squad started its 2009 season Friday afternoon by hosting a tournament that pitted LCHS against Calvary Day and Country Day.
The Lady Panthers lost to Calvary 25-18 and 25-18 and lost to Country Day 25-9 and 25-12 after two sets in each game.
However Lady Panther coach Jene’ Singleton said their biggest loss happened off the court when senior returning starter
Austin Andrews likely tore her ACL Wednesday in school. Pending an MRI, her return for this season is doubtful.
Singleton still has three other returning starters from last season and a few new faces.
"Watch for Catherine Scaggs formerly of First Presbyterian Christian Academy," Singleton said. "She helps to bring a new presence to the floor. Catherine is an all around player who can set, pass and hit the ball.
The coach said Taylor Mitchell, Miesha Quarterman and Kayla Rand are other players to watch, adding they’ve been seriously working on their hitting percentage.
"I think these three players will rack up on their kills."
Singleton said this year’s squad is more passionate about the sport. She said their strength this season is their volley.
"They have been committed to making sure they bump, set and hit on every play," she said. "I believe our weakness may be with our serving percentage and actual kills."
Last season, the Lady Panthers posted a 5-2 region 3-AAA record and were 11-9 overall.
Singleton knew her Friday night opponents were the toughest teams she would go against and said she was pleased her squad was able to stay competitive against both teams.
"They have a group of girls who have a lot of experience and exposure to the game," she said. "I think they are the toughest but I predict a winning season for our squad in our region."
Their toughest team in the region this year will be West Laurens the coach said.
"They didn’t loose very many players from last year, which gives them an advantage on the court," she said.
Liberty County High Volleyball Roster 2009-10
Austin Andrews- senior
Kayla Rand- senior
Morgan York- senior
Miesha Quarterman- senior
Taylor Mitchell- junior
Catherine Scaggs- junior
Candace Poole- junior
Geraldine Davidson- junior
Breana Norfleet- junior
Samantha Holt- sophmore
Jasmine Williams- sophmore
Mystery Ellert- sophmore
Rachel Gordon- freshman
Taylor Christner- freshman