Scouting Volleyball: Larkin Royals

Larkin Royals

Coach: Gail Johnson (3rd season)

Top returning players: Seniors Claire Sherman (Lib.), Jessica Harris (OH), Natalie Beaver (MH), Liza Smithberger (S)

Key newcomers: Juniors Amanda Lye (OH), Isadora Borrero (MH), Stacie Beaver (MH)

Outlook: The Royals have 9 seniors on the team this year with a number of them having played on the varsity for 3 seasons now. "The girls are working much harder this year and better together," said Johnson. "I want our team to have fun, play hard and have a winning season. Our hustle has improved and will lead us to a positive outcome. Johnson has been impressed with the senior leadership on the team. "I believe Claire Sherman, Liza Smithberger and Amanda Lye will have a great influence on the leadership of our team, but all the seniors are taking active roles in seeing that our team (is) successful this year," said Johnson. "They are all working very well together and pushing each other to (a) higher level of volleyball." Height and strength on offense will be improved areas for the Royals this season. "They are pushing themselves and each other to be better players," said Johnson. "They are also having a ton of fun working with one another. With all of those great attitudes and work ethics, we can only play better and thus have a better record. I am excited to start playing this season with this team."

Editor's note The Daily Herald did not receive information on Larkin's volleyball team in time for Sunday's Fox Valley girls volleyball previews.