Pittston Area returns a veteran lineup and could be developing greater depth with its newcomers as it looks to improve upon a winning season and playoff appearance in girls volleyball a year ago.
The Lady Patriots went 9-8 in the Wyoming Valley Conference and were eliminated in the District 2 Class 3A quarterfinals in Johanna Rehill’s first season back as head coach.
Many of the leaders of that team are back.
Seniors Michalie Mazurkivich and Emma Coles return to the starting lineup along with juniors Tiara George, Emilee Shaw and Syra Reza.
“My assistant coach, Greg Ratchford, and I are looking forward to a successful season with our veteran squad,” Rehill said. “I feel like we will absolutely be a force that will be tough to beat.”
Mazurkivich, who is also a middle hitter, and Coles are both middle hitters who also play on defense.
George is the team’s setter. Shaw plays outside hitter, middle hitter and defense while Reza plays outside hitter and defense.
Juniors Abby Bartoli and Bella Guasto also have some experience on defense and as outside hitters.
Sophomore Jiana Moran will be the setter for the JV team, but has a strong enough all-around game to earn playing time elsewhere for the varsity.
Junior Jess Zaledonis and sophomores Leah Zambetti, Emily Dietrick, Ava Butcher, Paige Kutchkus and Amanda Fath all have the chance to see varsity playing time.
“We have a bunch full of very athletic, capable and eager girls that will be ready to play,” Rehill said. “We also have a very athletic freshman squad that is learning quickly.”
