By NICHOLAS KIMBALL

Staff writer

Senior Calli Burkholder and junior Grace Hett, who won all-league honors the past two years, will return this year for Marion volleyball, which finished 20-17 last season.

“I think this will be a better season for us,” Burkholder said. “We have a well-rounded team ready to play the position they get put in. Each person knows their job and does it.”

The team is made up of 24 players — 4 seniors, 5 juniors, 7 sophomores, and 8 freshmen.

“I look forward to my senior year, helping lead this team,” Burkholder said. “I look forward to finishing off my volleyball journey strong with my teammates.”

Returning senior Natalie Hoffner agrees.

“I think our volleyball team is very strong all the way around this year, and we get along very well, which helps build our team up. I look forward to continue to grow and help lead our team. I am very excited to see how far we can get this year.”

Coach Kris Burkholder has established goals for the season that emphasize victories both on the court and off.

“Have a winning season, win the league, and compete with everyone we play,” she said. “Win sub-state, go to state, and end the season with a greater sense of family within our team and stronger relationship with each other.”

Her team got off to a hot 3-0 start this season. After a home match Tuesday against Moundridge, the Warriors will compete Saturday at an invitational tournament at Centre.

“I think our team will have a great season this year,” returning senior Carley Wilhelm said. “We have great players in every position, on and off the court. I am looking forward to helping lead this team and seeing how far we can go.”

She is leading the team in kills with an average of 2.4 per set. Hett is leading the team in aces with 1.6 per set, digs with 39, and receptions with 41. Calli Burkholder is leading in assists with 56.