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October 19, 2004
Volleyball struggles in MIAC play
With only five conference matches left, Hamline’s volleyball team is still looking for their first conference win of the season. The Pipers’ record stands at 0-7 in the MIAC and 8-11 overall.
Head coach Gina Rollie sees youth and inexperience as Hamline’s main problems this year.
“We have a lot of talented young players still adjusting to the pace of the college game,” she said.
Hamline also has a tough MIAC schedule this year, facing five of the top six MIAC teams in their first six conference matches.
“Our conference is extremely tough,” Rollie said, “and each team has a legitimate shot of beating anyone else in the conference on any given night.”
Despite the rough start, Rollie said she feels like the young team is improving quickly. With only three returners who saw significant playing time at the varsity level last year, she said she knew the season would be a test.
Rollie remains optimistic that the end of the season will give the program some positives to build on going into the 2005 season, saying that she is very excited to see how this year finishes up.
“We are taking small steps to get better every day, as individuals and as a team,” Rollie said. “The experience our first-years and sophomores have gained will help our program in the long run.”
Hamline has seen all of their success come in non-conference play, but the team still faces an intimdating final stretch in their MIAC schedule.
Even without a conference win, the team’s determination isn’t in question.
“These players work extremely hard and have won some very tough matches,” said Rollie. “I like the progress our team has made.”
Above all, Rollie said she is proud of the way the team has come together and continued to work hard despite the difficult season.
Hamline’s next home game is on Wednesday, Oct. 20, against Gustavus. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m.
The Pipers then play in the UW-Stout Tournament on Oct. 22ą23 and finish the season at home on Oct. 27 against St. Kate’s at 7:30 p.m.
Posted by msveum at October 19, 2004 12:01 PM
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