Photograph: Beau Chene volleyball team members Amelia Speyrer, Lexi Gautreaux Kadie Daigrepont, Allie Landry, Meghan Soileau, Linsey Manuel with coach Thad Dickey. (Photograph by Freddie Herpin.)
BOBBY ARDOIN
Editor/Consulting Writer
The Beau Chene offensive attack is expected to provide more versatility this season, a dimension that head coach Thad Dickey thinks will be more advantageous for his team.
“Looking at what is in front of us, I don’t feel we will have the multiple killers available this season, but I like to think we have four or five players who can be effective hitters from the front to the back rows,” Dickey said on Friday.
The key returning personnel, which features three seniors and as many juniors, presents the Gators with more options than last season, an aspect which Dickey said is encouraging.
“I think you could probably best describe (Beau Chene) as a finesse team. We have a number of talented players and that gives us a number of options,” Dickey said.
Senior outside hitter Linsey Manuel said the Gators have a number of talented players that will be spread along the court.
“Right now I don’t think you could say we have that one specific player. We have a bunch of really good players. We have good setters and hitters from the net to the back row. I think you are going to see us spread out the hitting and the defense throughout,” Manuel said.
Setter Lexi Gautreaux the Gators also have a tight camaraderie.
“On this team we are more like a bunch of sisters who really get along. I think we are going to be better all around. I think you are going to see a team that plays smart,” Gautreaux said.
The Gators were a number six playoff seed last year in Division II.
Dickey anticipates that this season Beau Chene can be better.
“I think we are going to have better overall depth and leadership. With the multiple hitters, we are going to have a team dynamic that is different. I think you are going to see a better team with a lot more team chemistry,” Dickey said.
