RCGC women's volleyball coach Rebecca Pierson hopes the 2018 season will be a turnaround campaign. She may indeed get her wish.
With several experienced and talented players on this season's roster, the Roadrunners appear ready to turn the corner. Led by sophomore middle blocker Azhyainna Redd, a former Winslow Township High standout, Pierson's club may well be ready to emerge as a winning team among NJCAA Region XIX programs.
"We went out during the off season and we recruited a few talented and experienced players," said Pierson, who begins her third season. "Plus, we have some solid returners – so we are very hopeful for a winning season and maybe even a playoff berth."
Click here for interview with Coach Rebecca Pierson
Season Preview: Volleyball
Coach: Rebecca Pierson, Third season.
Last Season: 3-13 overall record
Season opener: RCGC will open its season on Saturday, September 1, at Lehigh Carbon in a 2 pm match before hosting its first home match against Middlesex County College on Tuesday, September 4, at 6 p.m.
Returning players: Emily Tate, So., Jackson Memorial, middle blocker; Casey Rose Alderete, So., Winslow, libero; Azhyainna Redd, So. , Winslow, middle blocker; Alysia Williams, So., Delsea, outside hitter.
Promising newcomers: Top prospects include Megan Shook, So., Sterling, setter; Zuri Santiago, Fr., Pennsauken, outside hitter; and Elliana Barbuto, Fr., Williamstown, right side.
Other key incoming players include Victoria Caldas, Fr., Gloucester Catholic, defensive specialist; Taylor Caldas, Fr., Gloucester Catholic, outside hitter; Taelyn Williams, Fr., Delsea, outside hitter; and Kiersten Labbree, Fr., Gloucester Catholic, defensive specialist.
Outlook for 2018 season: The Roadrunners may be a team on the rise following a 3-0 win over Manor Community College in the preseason. RCGC features experience and depth, and hopefully that will translate into a winning campaign. Coach Rebecca Pierson feels this team may unite early on in the season and even make a run at a Region XIX playoff berth.
Coach Rebecca Pierson on her 2018 Roadrunners: "We're excited about the new season. We have some experienced players and some talented freshmen. We're confident we will be an improved team this season by bringing home a few wins. We're happy at this point with the players we have on our roster."