2009-2010 Team

The Lady Westerners look for a breakthrough season in 2009 after qualifying for the Region V West tournament in 2008, the second time the team has qualified for the postseason in the past four years. With just two returning players from the previous season, Coach Rick Hughes will be relying on what he considers his best recruiting class since he has piloted the WTC volleyball program. He said this year’s class is taller, more athletic, and better trained than any previous class.

Middle hitter Karina Leui (Dallas) and middle/outside hitter Diana Wilt (Grand Saline) are two six-footers who should prove to be a force at the net. Jamie Wilson of San Angelo, a 5’ 11” outside hitter should also contribute. Hughes also looks for incoming freshman Chelby Fallahay of Arlington to make an immediate impact as a setter.

Returning for the Lady Westerners are Alexis Rice and Courtney Huppler. Rice was a consistent factor in the offensive scheme for WTC, earning honorable mention on the Region V squad. Huppler, slowed by injuries early last season, recovered to become an important part of last year’s postseason appearance. Hughes expects Rice and Huppler to supply solid leadership in a lineup full of young, talented freshmen.

Coach is looking for these talented freshmen and returners to combine enthusiasm and determination to help battle for one of the top spots in the Western Junior College Athletic Conference. The defending champion is Frank Phillips, which advanced to the NJCAA national championships last season and looks to be a heavy favorite this year.