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University of Houston Athletics
Volleyball Embarks on '05 Season
8/11/2005 12:00:00 AM | Volleyball
Aug. 11, 2005
HOUSTON - The 2005 Cougar volleyball squad has been hitting the hardwood with strong practices throughout the week at the Athletics/Alumni Center in preparation for the upcoming season.
"I've been pretty impressed with our first couple of days of practice," Walton said. "The team has come in ready to work, and have carried the intensity level over from our spring season."
UH returns five starters for the 2005 campaign, including a pair of dynamic middle blockers in Becca Sartori and Kariny Ritter. On offense, the duo smashed over 300 kills apiece, while on defense they were instrumental in disrupting opposing offenses combining for 214 total blocks last season.
"I'm excited when I look at the potential of having all of these weapons out on the floor together," Walton said. "We have a special group of women here."
The Cougars also have added seven talented newcomers that all have a similar pedigree; success. The group is adjusting nicely to playing at the next level.
"The early practices are always interesting for the new players," Walton said. "The learning curve is at a high level, but they are beginning to see where they can contribute for this team right away."
Earlier in the week, the Cougars were selected to tie for fourth place with SMU in the Conference USA Preseason Poll.
"When you've been coaching as long as I have, you can't really put too much stock into polls," Walton said. "It's a nice tool to generate excitement for the upcoming season, but the game is decided on the court."
Houston starts its quest for its 12th NCAA Tournament appearance in the last 17 seasons under Walton as Wichita State invades the Athletics/Alumni Center on August 26. First serve is slated for 7 p.m.
