University of Houston Athletics
Cougar Volleyball Practice Starts Tuesday
8/5/2005 12:00:00 AM | Volleyball
Aug. 5, 2005
Houston - The 2005 edition of Houston volleyball takes the practice court for the first time at the Alumni/Athletics Center on Tuesday morning.
"We have an excellent core of juniors and seniors returning to the squad," head coach Bill Walton said. "This is one of our most talented groups that already has a lot of experience entering the season."
The Cougars return five starters from a season ago headlined by 2004 C-USA Defensive Player of the Year Jaci Gonzalez, and C-USA Third Team selection Kelly McAnelly.
Gonzalez shattered six C-USA and UH dig records last season on her way to being named First Team All-Conference. Those marks include a new single-season digs record (698), new single-season digs per game (5.77), and a new single-match record (43).
McAnelly paced the offensive attack for the second consecutive season smashing 490 kills. She tallied a double-digit kill total in all but six matches on her way to a team-best 13 double-doubles.
For Walton, it will mark the beginning of his 20th season at Houston, joining him with elite company. He is one of only six Cougar coaches with that long of tenure at UH. Walton enters the 2005 season just 11 victories shy of 600 career wins.
The Cougars open the 2005 slate hosting Wichita State on August 26. The Shockers are coming off a second round appearance at the NCAA Tournament a season ago. First serve is slated for 7pm at the Alumni/Athletics Center.
