By DELBERT PETERS

Staff writer

With six letter winners returning to Goessel volleyball, coach Crysta Guhr is optimistic about the outlook for the Class 1A regional defending champions.

Goessel finished last year 19-19 overall, and 6-3 in Wheat State League matches.

“The improvement between the last practice last year and the first practice this year is impressive,” Guhr said. “That is not something you can coach.”

Seniors Raechel Boese, Bethany Herrel and Elizabeth Schmucker will provide leadership on and off the court.

Boese will contribute at the net as an outside hitter and blocker on defense. Herrel will control the net as a middle blocker, and Schmucker will add to the team’s success as a defensive specialist in the back row.

All three seniors serve aggressively.

Juniors returning to the team will be setter Kaleigh Guhr, as well as outside hitters Lyna McCombs and Rachael Zogleman.

There were 17 girls who reported to practice for the 2020 season.

“Our goals to work on for this season are depth, improvement, and teamwork,” Guhr said. “I think we have a lot of potential.”

This year, 1A schools are divided into two divisions, and the Bluebirds will compete in a sub-state tournament without having to advance through a regional.

Goessel fans will notice that health precautions are in place, and facemasks are required.

Goessel’s season starts Sept. 1 with non-league matches at home against Ell-Saline, Sterling and Herington.