Hornet Volleyball Team Has The Numbers, Height

There must be something in the water in Enumclaw because not only does Coach Jackie Carel have a lot of girls trying out for the high school volleyball team, but many of them are in the 6-foot range.

“Height is a good thing,” she said, especially when it comes to trying to block the opposing team’s spikes.

The Hornets have quite a solid hitter of their own in Captain Haylee Mae Dennis. But she’s going to need a lot of help as the team tries to replace four seniors.

“They’ve got some big shoes to fill,” Carel said.

Trying to replace a two-year starter at setter will be key to the team’s success.

“That’s a very huge thing,” Carel said, adding she does return two seniors and four varsity players.

But she’s confident she can do that as 42 players are turning out for 30 spots. Also, Carel said EHS has some good feeder programs from the middle school and a good junior varsity team last year.

“They're ready to go,” the coach said. “I’ve seen some good things this summer, so it will just be putting people in the right places.”

Carel’s squad was second in the South Puget Sound League 3A division last year, and the Hornets advanced to the district tournament. She expects Mountain View-Auburn to be a powerhouse, and Bonney Lake to be strong, too.

The team's first match will be Sept. 6 at home against White River, starting at 7:15 p.m.