Mark Loiselle
Staff Writer
In the course of any season, there needs to be an end. However, the closure doesn’t necessarily have to be devastating; instead it can provide a new beginning.
After last year’s remarkable 34-3 record and a quarterfinal finish in the Division III National Championship, the women’s volleyball team returns for another crack at a NEWMAC and national crown.
Thus far in the 2012 season, Coach Moira Long’s team has presented moments of high-caliber talents, presenting a 7-2 record. Over the course of the month of September, the squad posted a 3-1 record in their first home stand, ran away from Providence, RI with a 3-1 record in the Johnson and Wales Invitational this past Saturday, and defeated NEWMAC opponent Wheaton in a dominating fashion on Tuesday night.
“We recognize we can’t win the NEWMAC or a national championship in September. There are stepping stones to get to the NEWMAC championships,” Long stated. “We are seeing good progress in that.”
Over the duration of these games, returning players, such as junior outside hitter Tessa Smolinski and senior middle blocker Mary Consol, have solidified a core. After displaying 54 kills and a .364 hitting percentage in 15 sets, Smolinski received the NEWMAC title “Player of the Week” on September 4, 2012.
In the middle, former blocker Lauren Torvi will be missed, but as a long as Consol is on the court, the Pride should like their chances. As middle blocker, Consol has provided leverage at the net, recording 87 kills and 26 total blocks.
“Mary has been doing an outstanding job,” the second-year coach commented with enthusiasm. “She was very defensive for us last year, and gave us some kills. This year she (Consol) has really elevated her game, and knows she needs to bring it offensively.”
The Springfield College women’s team has two main goals: the NEWMAC Championships followed by the national championship. Springfield’s next obstacle in reaching the ultimate goal is Saturday at 1 p.m at Wellesley College.