UPPER MERION GIRLS’ VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW
Coach: Tony Funsten (21st year)
Under Funsten, the Vikings have won 15 American Conference titles, five district titles, including four the last six. They have advanced to states nine times, finishing second, third, fifth and fifth the past four years.
Last year’s record: 14-0 SOL American Conference champions, 24-1, District One AAA champions.
Key players: “On the outside, we have Emily Shannon returning from an outstanding season in which she was named all-state. She will be paired with Emma Andraka, a 5'9'' freshman who does not play like a freshman. In the middle, we return a much improved Niki Carpenter (6'). She will be paired with Carolyn Helenski, a 5'10" junior. Eryn Brady (6'1") will move from the middle to the right side where she is very effective as both a hitter and a blocker. Ashley Shannon, who made the all-district team as a setter last year, will move back to libero where she played as a sophomore. Kailyn McNamee will be a mainstay for the defense with her passing. Carlye Odorisio will handle the setting chores. Senior outside hitter Julia Reinert will add depth and talent to a already very talented team. Micaela Ghanayem will add depth to the defense.”
Outlook: “The Lady Vikings are first looking to defend their American Conference title (seven consecutive), and are expecting a stern challenge from Hatboro-Horsham and darkhorse Upper Dublin. Then UM will try to be the second team to win back-to-back AAA district titles in the past 10 years having done it themselves in 2010 and 2011. Finally, Upper Merion would like to go deeper into the state playoffs than last year when they lost in the quarterfinals.”
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