Collinsville volleyball looks to improve on the court performance

By Mark Jurgena
T-T Contributor

Fletcher Gym has been alive for the past two weeks with the sounds of volleyball as the Collinsville girls volleyball team prepares for their fall season.

Coach Katie Suess has 30 freshmen through seniors on this year’s squad as they close in on their season opener at Chatham (Glenwood) on Monday evening. After traveling to Jerseyville on Tuesday they have their home opener one week from today as they host Highland.

“We had a pretty good summer with some open gyms throughout June and July, then tryouts last Monday were great and we hit the ground running,” she said. “We’re ready to play.”

This team of Kahoks may be more ready than some teams in the past due to their experience. Suess is looking forward to what her returners will bring to the courts around the area.

“The biggest thing is we have a lot more girls returning playing varsity this year than we’ve had in the past,” said Suess. “Leadership is one of our stronger suits. The girls seem to get along and work together and they have a real team aspect. I think that will hopefully carry us to success this season.”

Collinsville veteran senior Meghan Sommer will be the team’s libero and will be supported by a strong junior class that includes returners Talesha Gilmore, Carsyn Moad and Aubrey Johnson.

“Those are definitely our key leaders on the court and be looking for to make big plays for us,” she said.