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August 16, 2006
Hello Again Cal Volleyball Fans, It's time for another season to begin and this year the Bears could be better than ever. We began pre-season training a week ago and everybody came in fit and ready to compete for positions. Our returning team spent the second half of the summer working camps, going to summer school, lifting and conditioning. Our four seniors are in the best shape of their lives and are determined to make their senior year great. Lead by Sam Carter at setter and Jill Davis at libero we have experience captaining the offense and defense. Depth in the middle and fighting for a chance to fill Jenna Brown's position on the right side is Natalie Smart. So far in practice she is showing that she has the ability to play both positions. Vivian Cheung is competing well with a couple other players to secure the second defensive position on the court. The junior class has two returning starters, Angie Pressey on the outside and Ellen Orchard in the middle. They are stronger than ever and both show great confidence in their abilities and leadership. They have been performing very well in the preseason so far. In the sophomore class we have two athletes that are recovering from some injuries. Am'ra Solomon sprained an ankle in summer ball and Kat Reilly has knee surgery in July to repair a patellar tendon. Both are rehabbing like crazy and should be ready to play soon. Morgan Beck is showing some great stuff in practice and is splitting time between outside hitting and middle. Bryte Nielson is backing up Sam in the setting position and working hard as ever and getting stronger by the day. Our freshman class is about as good as they come and adds incredible depth to our team. Hana Cutura is showing some skills that we didn't know she had with very good play in the back court complementing her fine attacking and blocking skills. Mindi Wiley is athletic and learning the faster college game. She is improving everyday and will be competing for playing time immediately. Cat Dailey was doing great in every aspect of the game until an injury the other day sidelined her. While blocking she had her little finger on her left hand broken, requiring surgery, but is expected back in 4-6 weeks. Kristen Kathan also has been slowed by a wrist injury but should be cleared to play next week. She has shown why she was so highly recognized in high school and club ball the last few years. Two relatively unknown players joining our team this year have contributed to our team's efforts this fall. Carly Bouza and Jill Brunswick have both been exceptional in practice, doing everything we have asked and more. They are great team players and will provide depth and spirit to our team. We are excited to begin the season and will preview a little of what is to come on Saturday, August 19th with a Blue - Gold scrimmage. The game will be held in Haas pavilion with no admission charge. I will introduce our team and we will hold a practice with scrimmage activities so any fans that can make it will get to know the 2006 Bears first hand. This season we will host two tournaments to continue to bring great collegiate volleyball to Berkeley. As usual, check our web-site for the latest news. Until next time, Go Bears Rich Feller
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