Aug. 16, 2007

Growing pains.

There is no better way to describe the 2006 Alabama State University volleyball season. Because of the tremendous youth and inexperience on the squad, veteran head coach Sonia Price expected struggles. But nothing in her career had prepared her for a season that ended without a single victory.

"It was tough," Price said. "That's really an understatement. It's the most difficult thing I've ever gone through as a coach. I've been doing this for a long time and it's more than disappointing that we never found a way to get on track."

Price, who had averaged right just fewer than 10 wins per season during her previous 11 years at ASU, spent the offseason devising a strategy to rebuild her program.

"As the coach, I feel total responsibility for last year," Price said. "It doesn't matter to me that we had injuries or other issues, I have to find a way to get it done. And we will."

Price went out and revamped almost the entire roster, as well as bringing on new assistant coach Al'lisa Hale.

"Al'lisa brings so much enthusiasm," Price said. "And that kind of energy and excitement is just as important as all of the knowledge she brings."

Hale was a member of two SWAC championship teams at Alabama A & M (2002 & 2003). She has served as the head volleyball coach at Vigor (Ala.) high school for the past two seasons.

In addition to Coach Hale, the Lady Hornets will also add much needed depth, athleticism and size. And, despite last year's record, there also is talent returning.

Outside hitter Arieon Trinity is the most experienced of the returnees. The junior from New Orleans led the team in kills with 150 and kills per game with 2.34.

Montgomery native Jessica Holt, who earned SWAC defensive player of the week honors during the season, showed great promise during her freshman year. She will be counted on for leadership and production during her sophomore campaign.

Aleesha Woodruff was the leader in assists with 462, with an average of 6.7 per game. Nina Saunders appeared in 64 games, and along with Angelica Grissom, Jasmine Frye, Sheena Parms and Jeana Beasley all picked up valuable experience.

Price expects solid contribution from newcomers.

"The young ladies we have coming in will have the opportunity to play immediately," she said. "We will have stronger practices and better competition within our team for playing time."

"Most importantly though, having these numbers means we can make sure that everyone is on the same page. We are moving forward, and everyone will be on board or get left behind."