Women's Volleyball Pre-Conference Outlook
Q&A with Coach Wright ; Volleyball looking forward to success in 2016
With the start of conference volleyball season just around the corner, MiraCosta College Head Coach Kristen Wright took part in a Q&A where she shared some of her thoughts on the upcoming 2016 Pacific Coast Athletic Conference - North Division slate. From her own perspective, Coach Wright discusses what she is looking forward to and shares some of the team's goals and overall keys to success.
The Spartans have been one of the hottest teams in the California Community College Athletic Association (C.C.C.A.A.) so far this season, attaining an 11-match win streak during September while coming in at No. 7 in the state rankings. MiraCosta is 15-2 so far, and will play the team with the next best overall record in the division, Mt. San Jacinto College (10-5), to kick off the conference schedule on Friday, October 7, at 6 p.m. on their home court.
What are you looking forward to most about the upcoming season?
Wright: We are looking forward to continuing to improve our play throughout the conference. If we stay focused, hungry, and consistent, we have an excellent shot at winning the conference.
Is there a certain game or stretch of games you look forward to?
Wright: We treat every opponent the same in terms of preparation. If I were to pick one that is always a good battle it would have to be Palomar. We are so close in proximity and know one another. We are always excited to play them.
Where do you see the team finishing the conference?
Wright: Based on our preseason play, we have a great shot at winning the PCAC - North. We are 15-2 and have beaten many teams in the CCCAA Top 25. We ranked No. 7 in the state and No. 4 in Socal.
What are your personal goals this season?
Wright: Our goal is to win a conference championship, first, and then win a state championship. We have what it takes, we just need to keep improving in every area of our play. Personally, I want us to be healthy and enjoy the process of learning and growing. We have work to do, but I know this group can get to their goals.
What are the team's goals this season?
Wright: Our team goals are to win a pre-season tournament (which we did). Another goal is to win the conference and then go to state championship tournament, and then win the state championship.
How does this year's team compare to last year's? What area's will be improved?
Wright : Our team is very different than last year .We are much deeper than last years for starters. However, we had players like Brianna Sizemore who got about half our sets, maybe more every match. We also had Cady Francis swinging outside. We were a very outside dominant team who was led by setter Jesse Zieg. Each of our outsides combined for eight kills a set on our team . This year, we are very balanced. we can score at every position and we have made it a priority to be very balanced. We also can affored to put Cady Francis at Libero and she is passing half the court. That means we have recruited well. Our team last year laid the foundation. They were a great team, finishing top eight in region and just shy of final eight of the state. This team is commited to building off of it. We have a lot of experienced club playing freshman, so that has been helpful. Yet, we are still learning and chasing our potential daily.
What do you see as the biggest challenge/obstacle to overcome this season?
Wright : Like any team, keeping them focused, ensuring there is adequate rest but that we are peaking at the right time.
What can/should fans look forward to when they come to see you play?
Wright: We are notorious for a fiery squad that is very unified, very fast, athletic, and dynamic. You will see a large bench that gets utilized. Our practices are insanely competitive and every day someone new rises up. We are very spirited.
What will be the key to success for the team this season?
Wright : Intrinsic motivation and prioritizing their time with studies will be key. If we can stay focused and committed to the process we have laid out and execute our game plans, we will be very tough to stop this season.